NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has confirmed that the league is actively exploring the prospect of hosting a regular-season game in Tokyo, Japan, as part of its ongoing international expansion strategy. During recent league meetings, Goodell indicated that Japan is a primary target for the NFL’s growth, citing the country’s long-standing history with American football and a desire to return to a market that previously hosted exhibition games.
Goodell Targets Japan for Future International Series
The NFL’s international footprint continues to broaden, with Commissioner Roger Goodell identifying Japan as a key target for future expansion. Speaking to reporters, Goodell noted that the league is looking to establish a presence in Tokyo, building on the success of the NFL’s current International Series, which includes games in London, Munich, Frankfurt, São Paulo, and Mexico City. The NFL previously held a series of preseason games in Japan known as the American Bowl, which ran from 1989 to 2005. Bringing a regular-season contest to Tokyo would mark a significant shift in the league’s strategy, moving from exhibition play to high-stakes, counting games in the Asian market.
Expanding the Global NFL Calendar
The push into Japan is part of a broader directive from the league office to increase the number of international games significantly. Under current agreements, the NFL has the authority to host up to eight international games per season, a figure that league officials have expressed interest in increasing. The logistical challenges of such a move, particularly regarding travel across multiple time zones and player recovery protocols, remain a primary focus for the league’s competition committee. Players and team staff have historically noted the physical toll of long-haul flights, and any move to include Tokyo would require substantial adjustments to team scheduling and mid-week preparation.
The Shift from American Bowl to Regular Season
For decades, the American Bowl served as the NFL’s primary vehicle for international engagement, with games held at the Tokyo Dome. While those contests were popular, they did not impact the league standings. Recent league-wide efforts have focused exclusively on bringing meaningful games to international fans. By targeting a regular-season game in Tokyo, the NFL aims to tap into an existing, mature fanbase that has followed the sport since the late 1980s. The league has not yet announced a timeline for a potential game, but the Commissioner’s public comments signal that discussions with local stakeholders and stadium operators in Tokyo are a priority for the upcoming off-season.
International Growth and Revenue Implications
The NFL’s international strategy is underpinned by a desire to reach new media markets and global sponsors. According to league financial disclosures, international revenue remains a major growth pillar for all 32 teams. Expanding to Asia follows the successful implementation of the “Global Markets Program,” which allows teams to build brand presence and commercial partnerships in specific international territories. While European markets have received the bulk of the focus over the last five years, a return to Japan would represent the league’s most ambitious logistical undertaking to date, requiring the coordination of broadcasting partners, local logistics, and long-distance travel management.
What Fans Should Expect Next
While an official announcement regarding a 2025 or 2026 game in Tokyo has not been made, the league’s next major milestone for international scheduling is expected to arrive in early spring. Typically, the NFL reveals the dates, venues, and participating teams for the following season’s international games during the release of the official schedule in May. Fans should monitor league announcements regarding the 2025 International Series for any confirmation of a expansion into the Asian market. The league is currently focused on wrapping up its domestic season before finalizing the logistical roadmap for the next international cycle.
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