The National Football League (NFL) confirmed on Tuesday that Ireland will host its first-ever regular season game in 2025, with the Pittsburgh Steelers set to face the Minnesota Vikings at Dublin’s iconic Croke Park on Sunday, 28 September.
The announcement was made from Dublin Castle, placing the Irish capital firmly in the international spotlight as one of five global host cities for the NFL’s expanding international series, alongside London, Madrid, Berlin, and São Paulo.
The highly anticipated fixture marks a historic moment for Ireland and American football fans across the island. It will be the first time a regular season NFL game is played in the country, and the first appearance by the Steelers in Ireland since a 1997 preseason match at the same venue against the Chicago Bears. The Steelers have not played outside the U.S. since 2013, when they faced the Vikings in London.
The Irish government has committed nearly €10 million in state funding to support the event, covering licensing, venue security, transport, and logistical costs. The investment follows extensive negotiations with the NFL and is expected to deliver significant economic and tourism benefits.
“This event provides a huge boost to tourism and hospitality in Ireland and creates a great atmosphere in Dublin for visitors and locals alike,” said Patrick O’Donovan, Minister for Arts, Media, Communications, Culture and Sport. “We look forward to welcoming the teams and supporters to Croke Park and beyond.”
The 2025 NFL Dublin Game is poised to be one of the largest international sporting events ever held in Ireland, following the success of the Aer Lingus College Football Classic, which has brought considerable economic returns. This year’s college game between Kansas State and Iowa State is set for August at the Aviva Stadium.
Excitement is already building ahead of the Dublin game, especially as speculation swirls about whether veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers will join the Steelers. The Minnesota Vikings, coming off a 14-3 season, are expected to enter the season with renewed optimism under head coach Kevin O’Connell.
“Playing in Ireland’s first-ever NFL game is an opportunity to introduce new fans to the Minnesota Vikings and help the league continue to make the game more accessible globally,” said Vikings owner and president Mark Wilf.
Tickets for the September matchup at Croke Park are expected to go on sale in the coming weeks.
