Pittsburgh Steelers to host NFL's first Regular-Season game in Ireland at Dublin's Croke Park

In a historic move, the National Football League (NFL) has announced that the Pittsburgh Steelers will host the league's first-ever regular-season game in Ireland. The game is scheduled to take place in 2025 at Dublin's iconic Croke Park, the largest sporting arena in Ireland. This initiative is part of the NFL's ongoing efforts to expand its international presence and engage with a global fan base.

The Steelers' connection to Ireland runs deep. The Rooney family, owners of the franchise, trace their roots back to Newry, County Down. The late Dan Rooney, former president of the Steelers, served as the U.S. ambassador to Ireland from 2009 to 2012 and co-founded the Ireland Funds charity. In 1997, the Steelers played a preseason game against the Chicago Bears at Croke Park, marking one of the few instances an NFL game has been held in Ireland.

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NFL's global expansion strategy

The upcoming game in Dublin is a significant milestone in the NFL's broader strategy to globalize American football. Beyond Ireland, the league has announced plans to host games in Madrid and Berlin next season, with the Los Angeles Rams set to play in Melbourne, Australia, in 2026. These initiatives aim to tap into new markets and cultivate a diverse international fan base.

Croke Park, operated by the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA), is renowned for hosting major sporting events, including Gaelic football and hurling finals. The stadium has also been a venue for significant international events, such as the opening and closing ceremonies of the Special Olympics in 2003 and concerts by global music icons like U2 and Bruce Springsteen. Hosting a NFL regular-season game adds to its rich legacy of diverse events.

Anticipation builds among fans

The announcement has generated excitement among both American football enthusiasts and the Irish public. Peter O'Reilly, the NFL's executive vice president for international events, emphasized the league's commitment to bringing the game to passionate fans in Ireland. Art Rooney II, president of the Steelers, expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity to play in front of Irish supporters, highlighting the special connection between the team and the country.

While the exact date and opponent for the game will be announced in the spring, the anticipation is palpable. This historic event is expected to strengthen the cultural and sporting ties between the United States and Ireland, offering fans a unique opportunity to experience NFL action on Irish soil.