May 13, 2025
The NFL is set to make history this fall — and the Minnesota Vikings are leading the charge.
In a groundbreaking scheduling move, the Vikings will become the first team in NFL history to play back-to-back international games in two different countries, continuing the league’s growing commitment to global expansion and fan engagement beyond U.S. borders.
A European Doubleheader
The Vikings’ international journey kicks off on Sunday, September 28, when they face the Pittsburgh Steelers in Dublin, Ireland, for the first-ever regular-season NFL game held on Irish soil. The game will take place at Aviva Stadium, known for hosting rugby and soccer, and is expected to draw fans from across Europe and the United States.
A week later, the Vikings will head east to London, England, to take on the Cleveland Browns on Sunday, October 5, at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, one of the league’s favorite international venues.
Setting a New Standard
The NFL has steadily expanded its international series since the mid-2000s, with regular-season games in London becoming an annual tradition and Germany joining the slate in 2022. But this marks a bold new chapter — two different countries, two consecutive weeks, and one team at the center of it all.
“We’re proud to be part of NFL history,” said Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell. “It’s an incredible opportunity to grow the game and connect with fans on a global level — and it’ll be a unique challenge for our team.”
The decision is part of the league’s broader Global Markets Program, which aims to promote fan bases and brand recognition in key international markets. Both the Vikings and the Steelers have official marketing rights in Ireland, making this matchup a natural fit for the NFL’s expansion strategy.
Logistical Challenges Ahead
While the back-to-back international slate is exciting, it won’t be without hurdles. Jet lag, travel fatigue, and abbreviated practice time will all be factors — particularly for Minnesota, who will spend nearly two full weeks abroad in unfamiliar environments.
Still, the team is embracing the challenge. Quarterback J.J. McCarthy, the Vikings’ highly anticipated rookie, expressed enthusiasm about taking the field on an international stage so early in his career.
“To start my journey with something this big — two different countries, packed stadiums, history being made — it’s surreal,” McCarthy said in a recent interview. “We’re locked in.”
A Global Fan Base Awaits
Tickets for the Dublin game reportedly sold out in under 30 minutes, with demand from both Irish locals and Vikings fans traveling overseas. NFL Ireland fan groups have surged in membership, and sports bars across Dublin are already planning game-day events and watch parties.
In London, enthusiasm remains high, as Tottenham Stadium has become a staple in the NFL’s international presence, offering a state-of-the-art NFL-specific experience unmatched outside of the U.S.
Looking Ahead
The Vikings’ European doubleheader could mark a turning point for the league’s international ambitions — showing that not only are multi-country series viable, but they can be a compelling part of the season narrative.
If Minnesota performs well through this historic stretch, don’t be surprised if the NFL makes similar moves in future seasons.
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