International Super Bowl? Pros and Cons of Hosting Outside the U.S./ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ The idea of an NFL Super Bowl outside the United States has gained attention, with Commissioner Roger Goodell suggesting it could happen in the future. While tradition keeps the game in U.S. cities, the NFL is expanding its international presence, recently adding Spain and Brazil to its list of host countries for regular-season games. Challenges such as time zones, weather, and government support remain, but potential host cities include Mexico City, London, Madrid, Berlin, and Rio de Janeiro.
Could the Super Bowl Go Global? Key Considerations
- NFL Expansion Goals: The league wants to increase the number of international games before considering a Super Bowl abroad.
- Time Zone Issues: European cities would require an unusual kickoff time to accommodate U.S. audiences.
- Weather Concerns: Many potential host cities face cold and rainy conditions in February.
- Fan & Business Impact: U.S. cities invest heavily in hosting the Super Bowl—foreign governments may not be as willing to meet those demands.
- Top Contenders: Locations such as Mexico City, London, Madrid, and Rio de Janeiro have the infrastructure to host.
Potential International Super Bowl Host Cities
Mexico City – Estadio Azteca
Pros:
- Same time zone as many U.S. cities.
- Proven NFL host—held multiple regular-season games.
- Mild February weather compared to many European options.
Cons:
- High altitude (7,200 feet)—could affect player stamina.
- Past field condition issues—an NFL game was canceled in 2018 due to poor turf.
London – Tottenham Hotspur Stadium
Pros:
- State-of-the-art stadium built with NFL games in mind.
- Dedicated NFL locker rooms and infrastructure.
- Long-term contract with the NFL for regular-season games.
Cons:
- Time zone difference (five hours ahead of Eastern Time).
- Smaller capacity (under 63,000).
- February weather can be cold and rainy.
London – Wembley Stadium
Pros:
- One of the most historic NFL venues in Europe.
- Large capacity (86,000+).
- Regular host of Jacksonville Jaguars games.
Cons:
- Time zone challenges for U.S. broadcasts.
- Weather concerns—February is often wet and chilly.
Madrid – Santiago Bernabéu Stadium
Pros:
- Retractable roof eliminates weather concerns.
- Hosts the NFL’s first-ever regular-season game in Spain in 2025.
- More than 78,000 seats.
Cons:
- Six-hour time difference from the U.S.
- Not yet a regular NFL host city.
Barcelona – Camp Nou
Pros:
- Massive capacity (104,000)—could set a Super Bowl attendance record.
- Mild Mediterranean climate.
- Global brand power—Barcelona is a major international sports city.
Cons:
- Not currently in the NFL game rotation.
- Time zone difference from the U.S.
Berlin – Olympic Stadium
Pros:
- Germany is one of the NFL’s fastest-growing markets.
- Berlin will host its first NFL game in 2025.
- Capacity of 74,000.
Cons:
- Six-hour time difference from the U.S.
- Cold and wet February conditions.
Paris – Stade de France
Pros:
- Hosting a Super Bowl in Paris would be a global spectacle.
- Capacity of 80,000.
Cons:
- Lease uncertainties have prevented a regular-season NFL game so far.
- Time zone and weather challenges.
Dublin – Croke Park
Pros:
- Large stadium with 86,000+ seats.
- Experience hosting large American crowds for college football games.
Cons:
- Not yet in the NFL rotation for games.
- Time zone and unpredictable weather.
Rio de Janeiro – Maracanã Stadium
Pros:
- Same time zone as Eastern U.S. cities.
- Massive event appeal—Super Bowl week could merge with Carnival.
- Capacity of 78,000.
Cons:
- Extreme heat and humidity in February.
- Not yet part of the NFL’s regular game rotation.
Challenges of an International Super Bowl
Even if the NFL selects a host city, several hurdles remain:
Time Zone Differences
- The Super Bowl traditionally kicks off at 6:30 PM ET, but a game in Europe would require a late-night start in the U.S. or an early evening start in Europe.
- Mexico City and Rio de Janeiro pose fewer challenges with time zones.
Fan Travel & Cost
- Super Bowl tickets are already expensive—international travel and lodging would raise costs even further.
- Would U.S. fans travel in large numbers?
Government Support & Infrastructure
- U.S. host cities invest millions in Super Bowl week, often providing tax incentives.
- Foreign governments may be less willing to meet these financial demands.
Will the NFL Take the Super Bowl Abroad?
An international Super Bowl is unlikely before 2029, but the conversation is gaining momentum.
- Mexico City is the most practical option due to time zone alignment, climate, and existing NFL fanbase.
- London, Madrid, and Berlin have strong stadiums but significant time zone challenges.
- Rio de Janeiro offers an exciting location but may be logistically difficult due to extreme heat.
For now, the NFL is focused on expanding international regular-season games, but if global interest continues to rise, a Super Bowl outside the U.S. may one day become a reality.
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