THE TRANSATLANTIC MAGAZINE
THE TRANSATLANTIC MAGAZINE
With the 2021 NFL season over, the new Champions crowned, and the Super Bowl history now written up, heads inevitably turn to what's next. And that, particularly for overseas Americans, includes who will be playing in the International Series games this year. So, you can only imagine the buzz and excitement when NFL Red Zone host Scott Hanson posted on social media Sunday afternoon (from a ski slope, no less) that an announcement regarding just that would be made this past Monday.
Since 2007 London has hosted regular season games, and it's now common that multiple games are played here, especially with the purpose-built stadium in Tottenham. Add to the mix a game in Mexico and the fact Germany will now also host games, its an exciting time to be an NFL fan outside of North America.
The anticipation started to build as the time of the announcement was set for 2.30pm GMT. It was made clear that the teams that would host games in the five games to be played away from USA shores, would be those named, and the venues at which they would participate. When the time came, all the rumours were put to bed and fans could at last start some initial planning, although nothing concrete as the dates and kick off times were not on the list.
One name stuck out. The only team out of the current 32 that hasn't played outside of the States, the Green Bay Packers are officially a London team this year. They will play one of the two games at Tottenham this year. "The Green Bay Packers are excited to make our international debut during the 2022 season. Our fans in the UK and elsewhere in Europe have been eagerly awaiting an opportunity to see the Packers play in their backyard, and we know that many of our fans in the United States will travel to London," said Packers President/CEO Mark Murphy.
The other host team at Tottenham will be the New Orleans Saints. "We have enjoyed successful trips in the past and look forward to representing New Orleans and our fans from around the globe," said Mickey Loomis, Saints Executive President/General Manager. The Saints have previously played in London twice, both times at Wembley, so Tottenham will be a first for them.
A third London game will happen this year as an agreement was reached with the Jacksonville Jaguars to play at Wembley Stadium again. Said Jax owner Shad Khan said, "London has served as the Jaguars' home away from home since 2013. Wembley is a significant part of our identity and brand in London and throughout the UK and our fans are looking forward to returning. After a three-year absence, the Jacksonville Jaguars are coming back to Wembley Stadium. We're looking forward to the homecoming!"
Tampa Bay Buccaneers will make history when they run out in the Bayern Munich Stadium in Munich, Germany. Lastly the Arizona Cardinals will play in the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City, to complete the five games to be played overseas by NFL teams in 2022.
