NFL announces London International Series for 2016

The NFL has announced the games to be played in the United Kingdom in 2016.

The NFL has announced the 2016 International Series schedule, and the Indianapolis Colts will be travelling to the Jacksonville Jaguars’ adopted home of London in an AFC South showdown.

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NFL International Series 2016:

Sunday, October 2: Indianapolis Colts at Jacksonville Jaguars (Wembley)
Sunday, October 23: NFC East opponent at St. Louis Rams (Twickenham)
Sunday, October 30: Washington Redskins at Cincinnati Bengals (Wembley)

Football has been growing in popularity in the United Kingdom for a number of years, ever since they began playing regular season games in 2007. Since the Miami Dolphins ‘hosted’ the New York Giants at Wembley Stadium eight years ago, the league has gradually increased the number of games played in London.

For the first time, Twickenham Stadium will host an NFL game in 2016. Twickenham is the home of the England rugby team, and has agreed a three-year deal to host NFL games. From 2018, there will be games hosted in the new Tottenham Hotspur stadium, which is currently under construction.

Outside of the games, there are a number of popular events held in London the week leading up to a game. Each year, events held on Regent Street and at Trafalgar Square feature players from the teams. There are a number of fan activities, including a chance to get a photo with the Lombardi Trophy.

These events, the increased number of games along with a continued push from the television coverage on Sky Sports has helped grow the popularity of the sport in the UK.