The Jacksonville Jaguars have spent a decade growing their brand in the United Kingdom and will now expand those efforts to include Ireland.
On Tuesday, the NFL announced an expansion of its Global Markets Program (previously known as International Home Marketing Areas) to 21 teams sharing rights in 14 markets.
The Jaguars will share rights in Ireland with the Pittsburgh Steelers, as both teams are now allowed to build their brand in the country.
“Since we arrived in London in 2013, we have made great strides in growing the Jaguars fan community outside of the United States with a committed and loyal supporter base already established across the country,” Jaguars owner Shad Khan said in a statement. “Our Foundation reaches tens of thousands of young people each year through the delivery of community programs like JagTag and is committed to providing sustainable solutions to tackle inequality and to support the development of young people.
“I am delighted to be able to announce that we are expanding our marketing rights into the Republic of Ireland, which not only underpins our long-term commitment to the UK but presents us with the opportunity to amplify our trajectory of growth internationally. The Republic is famous for its love of American Football, therefore appealing to new Jaguars fans through meaningful fan engagement and bespoke initiatives that will contribute to communities in the Republic, will truly reflect the Jaguars position as an international NFL team.”
In 1997, a preseason game between the Steelers and Chicago Bears was held at Croke Park in Dublin, Ireland, but the league hasn’t been back and has never placed a regular season game there.
