Vikings have history on their 2025 schedule
The Minnesota Vikings are set to make history by becoming the first NFL team to play overseas in consecutive weeks during the 2025 season. They will face the Pittsburgh Steelers at Croke Park in Dublin, marking Ireland's first-ever NFL game, followed by a match against the Cleveland Browns at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London. This international schedule is part of the NFL's broader initiative to expand the game's global outreach, with games scheduled in Brazil, Germany, Ireland, and Spain. Vikings team owner Mark Wilf expressed excitement about introducing the team to new fans and the unique challenges of playing storied franchises like the Steelers. The team has a history of playing international games, having previously competed in London against the Steelers in 2012, the Browns in 2017, and the New Orleans Saints in 2022.
Context:
The Minnesota Vikings are set to make history by becoming the first NFL team to play overseas in consecutive weeks during the 2025 season. They will face the Pittsburgh Steelers at Croke Park in Dublin, marking Ireland's first-ever NFL game, followed by a match against the Cleveland Browns at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London. This international schedule is part of the NFL's broader initiative to expand the game's global outreach, with games scheduled in Brazil, Germany, Ireland, and Spain. Vikings team owner Mark Wilf expressed excitement about introducing the team to new fans and the unique challenges of playing storied franchises like the Steelers. The team has a history of playing international games, having previously competed in London against the Steelers in 2012, the Browns in 2017, and the New Orleans Saints in 2022.
Dive Deeper:
The Minnesota Vikings will be the first NFL team to play international games in consecutive weeks, facing the Pittsburgh Steelers in Dublin and the Cleveland Browns in London during the 2025 season.
The Vikings' game against the Steelers will be the first NFL game held in Ireland, scheduled to take place at Croke Park on September 28, 2025, with a broadcast on NFL Network.
Team owner Mark Wilf emphasized the significance of this opportunity to introduce the Vikings to new international fans and to tackle the unique challenge of playing against a renowned franchise like the Steelers.
The NFL's decision to include multiple international games aligns with its strategy to grow football's global presence, with additional games planned in Brazil, Germany, Ireland, and Spain.
The Vikings have played international games in the past, including matches against the Steelers in 2012 and the Browns in 2017, both in London, and most recently against the New Orleans Saints in 2022.
The Vikings' return to London in 2025 is anticipated to be a memorable experience, as UK fans have historically shown strong support, creating a homefield-like atmosphere for the team.
In their previous international outing, the Vikings defeated the New York Jets at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, further solidifying their experience and appeal among international audiences.