Roger Goodell reveals Eagles will host Brazil game on Friday of opening weekend
NFL commissioner Roger Goodell revealed in a press conference Monday that the Philadelphia Eagles will be the host team for a game played in Brazil in 2024. The game will be played on the Friday of opening weekend, which would be Sept. 6.
The contest is set to be the first-ever regular season NFL game played in South America. It will take place in the city of São Paulo at Corinthians Arena, home to Brazilian soccer team the Sport Club Corinthians.
The NFL has made more of an effort in recent seasons to expand the game internationally and this represents another opportunity to grow the sport. The Brazil game will be one of five international contests in the 2024 season as three games will also be played in London and one will be played in Germany.
“Bringing the NFL to new continents, countries and cities around the world is a critical element of our plan to continue to grow the game globally,” Goodell said when the game was announced in December. “Brazil has established itself as a key market for the NFL, and we are excited to be playing in Brazil and São Paulo for the first time in 2024. We look forward to working with the city of São Paulo, SP Turis and Corinthians Arena to deliver a world-class game day experience for this passionate and growing fan base.”
The NFL reports that Brazil is the second-largest international fan base behind Mexico with more than 38 million fans. The Eagles are coming off of a 11-6 season and lost in the Wild Card round of the playoffs. It’s unclear at this point who their opponent will be.
“We think this is giving us an ability to access more fans not just here in the states, but on a global basis,” Goodell. “I think it’s gonna be a huge hit. We’re excited.”
Roger Goodell opens up on Taylor Swift’s impact on the NFL
Taylor Swift’s impact on the NFL’s business this season has been undeniable, with her public relationship with Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce serving as a catalyst to reach and create new fans.
While her presence at Chiefs games and on NFL broadcasts may draw the ire of hardcore fans, the viewership numbers, as well as the dollars and cents, prove she’s a bona fide draw. With Swift expected to be in attendance for Super Bowl LVIII between the Chiefs and San Francisco 49ers this Sunday at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Swifties across the globe are gearing up for her appearance — even if it’s for a split-second.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, speaking with reporters in Las Vegas Monday, addressed the impact the pop music superstar has had on the league.
“Having the Taylor Swift effect is also positive,” Goodell said. “Both Travis and Taylor are wonderful young people, they seem very happy. She knows great entertainment, and I think that’s why she loves NFL football. I think it’s great to have her apart of it. Obviously, it creates a buzz [and invites] another group of young fans and young women who are interested in why she’s going to this game, why she is interested in this game. Besides Travis, she’s a football fan. And I think that’s great for us.”