Vikings-Steelers in Dublin is Second Most-Watched NFL Network International Game Ever
Hey football fans! It looks like the NFL’s global push is paying off big time. The recent showdown between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Minnesota Vikings, held at the historic Croke Park in Dublin, Ireland, was a massive hit with viewers. The game wasn’t just a nail-biter on the field; it also pulled in some serious numbers in terms of viewership.
Dublin Game Scores Big with Viewers
Get this: a whopping 7.9 million viewers (across TV and digital platforms) tuned in to watch the Steelers snag a 24-21 victory over the Vikings in the Emerald Isle. That’s a huge number, making it the second most-watched NFL Network International Game ever. The only game that topped it? That would be the Miami Dolphins-Kansas City Chiefs clash in Frankfurt, Germany, back in 2023.
What’s even more impressive is that this Vikings-Steelers game saw a 68% jump in viewership compared to the average for NFL Network’s International Games this year. That’s a huge leap! Plus, during the game itself, from 12:30 p.m. ET until the final whistle, the average viewership climbed to over nine million. Talk about a captivated audience!
Why the International Appeal?
So, what’s driving this surge in international interest in American football? A few things likely play a role:
- Growing Fan Base: The NFL has been actively working to expand its reach beyond the United States. By hosting games in different countries, they’re giving international fans a chance to experience the excitement of live NFL action firsthand.
- Prime-Time Slots: Scheduling these international games during times that are convenient for viewers in both the US and the host country is key. The Dublin game, for example, kicked off at a time that allowed fans on both sides of the Atlantic to tune in without having to stay up all night or wake up at the crack of dawn.
- Star Power: Let’s face it, people love to watch star players. The Steelers and Vikings both have their fair share of recognizable names, which helps to draw in casual viewers who might not be die-hard NFL fans.
- The Novelty Factor: There’s something inherently exciting about watching a game being played in an unusual location. Croke Park, with its rich history and Irish charm, added a unique backdrop to the Vikings-Steelers matchup.
London Calling: More International Games on the Horizon
If you’re craving more international NFL action, you’re in luck! The 2025 International Games are just getting started. There are three consecutive games in London.
First up, this Sunday, the Vikings will be heading to London to face the Cleveland Browns at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. This game will be broadcast exclusively on NFL Network and available to stream on NFL+. So, mark your calendars and get ready for some gridiron action across the pond!
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Important Note: The 7.9 million viewers number doesn’t include over-the-air (OTA) viewership from the Minneapolis and Pittsburgh markets. So, the actual number of people who watched the game is likely even higher!
The Bottom Line
The success of the Vikings-Steelers game in Dublin is a clear sign that the NFL’s international strategy is working. As the league continues to expand its global footprint, we can expect to see even more exciting matchups played in unique locations around the world. So, grab your jerseys, get ready to cheer, and get ready for more international NFL action!
