NFL in London: The Legendary Wembley Stadium’s NFL History

This Sunday marks the kickoff of the first London game of the NFL season, as the league continues its tradition of hosting exciting matchups across the pond. But just how many games have graced the hallowed ground of Wembley Stadium? Let’s dive into the remarkable journey of NFL football in this iconic venue.

Wembley Stadium stands as a historical landmark for many reasons, from legendary football matches to unforgettable concerts. Yet, its relationship with the NFL has developed into a significant chapter in both sports and cultural history. Before the NFL settled into its routine of hosting regular-season games in the UK in 2007, the seeds were planted in the 1980s when several teams made their way to London for special showcase games.

The inaugural NFL showdown in London took place in 1983, featuring the Minnesota Vikings against the St. Louis Cardinals in a preseason game dubbed the “Global Cup.” This clash paved the way for the creation of the American Bowl, a series of preseason contests that kicked off in 1986. The first American Bowl saw the Chicago Bears triumph over the Dallas Cowboys in front of a packed crowd, winning 17-6.

NFL action at Wembley Stadium
From 1986 to 1991, Wembley embraced seven of these American Bowl games, showcasing a range of teams and talents. The excitement was palpable, as fans from across Europe flooded to witness the spectacular games.

In 2005, however, the last of these preseason spectacles unfolded in Japan, signaling a pivotal shift. The NFL then made a historic decision to launch the International Series, resulting in regular-season games being hosted in London. This introduced a new era, with the first official game at Wembley Stadium featuring the New York Giants against the Miami Dolphins, a game that set the tone for future international play.

Since that inaugural match, Wembley has been the chosen battleground for numerous NFL games. As of October 2023, the stadium has hosted a total of 25 regular-season contests, with the most recent being a decisive victory for the Jacksonville Jaguars over the Atlanta Falcons, finishing 23-7.

Wembley Stadium’s Capacity and Upcoming Games

Wembley Stadium is renowned not just for its history, but also for its staggering capacity, accommodating up to 90,000 fans for sporting events. This makes it one of the premier venues in the world for both football and other major events.

Looking ahead, the NFL has confirmed that in 2024, Wembley will host a significant game in its regular season lineup. The Jacksonville Jaguars, who have established a fanbase in London, are set to face off against the New England Patriots. The matchup is scheduled for Sunday, October 20, with kickoff projected for 3:30 PM CEST. With both teams navigating challenging seasons, this encounter could serve as a crucial turning point for either side.

Iconic view of Wembley Stadium

Catch the NFL on DAZN

For fans eager to catch every moment of the NFL action, DAZN is the ultimate destination. The streaming service offers comprehensive coverage, including live games through the “Super Sports” package, as well as the popular “RedZone” and “ENDZN.” Moreover, the NFL Game Pass provides fans with extensive access to all games and highlights from the season.

In conclusion, Wembley Stadium’s contribution to the NFL cannot be overstated. From the early American Bowl days to the current excitement of the International Series, the stadium has become an integral part of the NFL’s global strategy, bringing the excitement of American football to British fans. With more thrilling matchups on the horizon, Wembley Stadium is set to continue its storied legacy as a premier football venue.

For more details on how to experience all the NFL action, check out all information on the NFL Game Pass and everything you need to know about the NFL on DAZN.