Outgoing GAA President Larry McCarthy has admitted that he is hopeful that an NFL game can take place in Ireland within the next five years.
NFL teams, the Jacksonville Jaguars and Pittsburgh Steelers, have announced their plans to expand their brand in Ireland as part of the NFL's Global Markets Program. The Jaguars have been expanding their brand in the UK since 2013 and have played NFL games in London.
In 1997, Ireland hosted a pre-season game between the Steelers and the Chicago Bears at Croke Park. However, since then, Irish fans of the sport have been limited to college games, such as Notre Dame's visits to Dublin in 2012, with another visit scheduled for August.
When asked about NFL games being played in Dublin, similar to London, McCarthy responded by saying, "Oh yeah, yeah. And as I've said to them privately, it has to be a game. It doesn't necessarily have to be a competitive game; it has to be a game in a competition.
GAA President Larry McCarthy: “We are looking to further our relationship…we are looking forward to a QB throwing some touchdowns here”@NFLIreland | @SteelersIreland pic.twitter.com/lEjkgf5rud
— Michael McQuaid (@Michael_NFL) May 25, 2023
'We have sent teams abroad for many years to places like New York, where they have played friendlies. That's gone. People have no interest in those anymore. They want a game in a competition, even though it might not be a competitive game, it has to have relevance.
"Would you take a preseason game? Yes, you would. But an NFL regular season game is the ultimate that you are looking for."
McCarthy also acknowledged that Ireland and America's long historic connection could help make an NFL game in Dublin a reality. He mentioned the previous preseason game held in 1997 and highlighted the deep roots and connections between the countries and the organizations, expressing his belief that it is achievable.
He further pointed out the NFL's marketing strategy of expanding internationally, with five games in Europe and previous preseason games in the Far East, suggesting that Dublin could be a viable location.
McCarthy concluded by stating, "No bias here, we have the best stadium in Europe.
