Berlin prepares for historic first NFL regular-season game in 2025

In 2025, Berlin, Germany, is set to welcome its inaugural NFL regular-season game at the historic Olympiastadion, marking a significant milestone for the league's international expansion. This decision, announced by NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, builds upon the league's ongoing commitment to engage with its growing fan base in Germany, which boasts nearly 20 million NFL enthusiasts. The NFL has previously held preseason games in Berlin and has established its presence in the country with regular-season contests in other German cities such as Munich and Frankfurt since 2022. The choice of Berlin for this event highlights the city's rich history with American football, which dates back to the days of NFL Europe and the Berlin Thunder, a team that played in the league until its closure in 2007. The NFL's strategy revolves around capitalizing on the significant interest in football in Germany while also fostering the development of youth and flag football programs across the country. This initiative is seen as a proactive measure to prepare for the inclusion of flag football in the upcoming 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, thereby creating a pathway for the sport's growth at multiple levels. The precise details regarding the teams that will compete in the game, along with its date and ticketing information, will be revealed in the future. However, the league has conveyed that this is part of a multiyear commitment to host events in Berlin, reinforcing the notion of nurturing a deeper connection with the city's diverse and enthusiastic sports culture. Officials from Berlin's government have expressed excitement about the economic and tourism benefits this event will generate, as well as the increased visibility it affords the city on an international stage. As the NFL aims to expand its international outreach, the Berlin game underscores a broader vision of including more franchises in international play, with plans to schedule up to eight international games annually starting in 2025. The league also continues to explore additional markets, including Brazil, Mexico City, and even Dublin, Ireland, as potential future venues for regular-season contests. Therefore, the decision to host a game in Berlin serves not merely as a special event but as a key component in the NFL's long-term growth strategy beyond American borders.