Ireland to host NFL International game 'soon' as Commissioner Roger Goodell provides positive update

After Commissioner Roger Goodell's latest update, it looks increasingly likely that an NFL International game will be hosted in Dublin.

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has provided the biggest indication yet that a regular season game could be coming to Dublin, saying a game will happen 'soon'.

The NFL has been expanding its international games portfolio in recent years with games now being played across the globe.

With the Pittsburgh Steelers, in particular, investing heavily in expanding their brand in Ireland, team owners have been vocal about their desire to bring a game to Dublin.

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And now Commissioner Goodell has said he expects to see a game in Dublin 'soon'.

Speaking at an NFL Live event in the UK, Goodell answered a question from NFL Ireland's Michael McQuaid on the topic, saying: "I have a lot of respect and admiration (for Ireland). I know the Steelers really want to go there too. I have no doubt we'll be playing in Ireland. I don't know if it will be next year but it's coming soon."

Goodell has a reputation for being very deliberate with his words, so a promise of a game that will arrive soon holds weight, however, in saying so he has quashed expectations of a game as soon as 2025.

The NFL boss has spoken in the past about his desire to have an International Game every week of the regular season and that uptick in games would bolster Dublin's chances of hosting a game.

The league will host five games outside of the United States during the 2024/25 season, with Brazil, England, and Germany as the three host countries. Santiago Bernabeu in Madrid will host a game next season, and it is likely London will host at least two more.

NFL staff spent time in Dublin recently conducting a feasibility study about hosting a game in Ireland. It remains to be seen if the Aviva Stadium or Croke Park is the leading candidate to host the game.

The Pittsburgh Steelers have hosted two sold-out watch parties at GAA HQ, played a pre-season game at the stadium in 1997, and conducted a number of media events inside Croke Park.

One of the big benefits of hosting in Croke Park would, of course, be its capacity. However, the Aviva Stadium has hosted a number of college games in recent years with big success and will also be in contention to host a game.

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