Brazil set to host NFL game in 2024
Brazil is going to be the next country to host an NFL international game. The league decided to play a game in South America, while Spain was also in consideration. According to Brazilian sources, the game will be played at Neo Quimica Arena, in São Paulo. It's a soccer stadium from Corinthians, initially built to […]
Brazil is going to be the next country to host an NFL international game. The league decided to play a game in South America, while Spain was also in consideration.
According to Brazilian sources, the game will be played at Neo Quimica Arena, in São Paulo. It's a soccer stadium from Corinthians, initially built to host the 2014 FIFA World Cup. The Miami Dolphins will be one of the teams, and it's expected to be in week 1 of the 2024 season.
The NFL has expanded across the globe over the last few decades, and Europe has received most of the international games. The United Kingdom gets yearly games in London, and Germany has been a frequent host as well. In the Americas, Mexico and Canada have had games, but the matchup in Brazil will be the first in South America in NFL history.
"Neo Química Arena offers robust business opportunities for brands across all sectors," said Gilberto Corazza, Corinthians superintendent of new business development. "We have an action plan that involves inventory of commercial deliveries and premium properties available for activation, as well as customized experiences for brands. The Arena is an exceptional space and has become a protagonist in Brazil, bringing together sports, entertainment, and innovation."
Brazil has experienced a big growth in football popularity, even though soccer is obviously a dominant force in sports preference and coverage in the entire country. NFL's market research indicated Brazil as one of the largest NFL markets outside of the United States.
Possibilities
According to Albert Breer, from Sports Illustrated, an NFC team has to be the home team because of the NFL alternating system of the 17-game schedule. The Dolphins will be the away team against the Los Angeles Rams, Seattle Seahawks, and an NFC North team — right now, it would be the Detroit Lions.
Marketing connection
The Green Bay Packers and the New England Patriots have the two biggest fan bases in Brazil, but the Miami Dolphins have a strong marketing connection with the country. The Dolphins were granted Brazil's marketing rights via the International Home Marketing Areas (IHMA) NFL program.
"We are excited that the NFL has created this global initiative to allow teams to connect with their worldwide fanbases," said Tom Garfinkel, Vice Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Miami Dolphins and Hard Rock Stadium. "The Miami Dolphins have an international brand with passionate followings in Brazil, United Kingdom and Spain. While our priority remains to service our fans in South Florida, we are committed to investing in and growing our presence internationally in the coming years with our fan clubs and partners through innovation, technology and local community impact."