“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 of football more accessible globally,” stated Vikings Owner/President Mark Wilf. “To do so against a storied franchise like the Pittsburgh Steelers adds a unique challenge that makes this even more special. We are honored to be selected for this historic game and will be anxious to see what promises to be an electric game day environment in Croke Park.”
Wilf also expressed his excitement about the return to London, where the Vikings have a strong and supportive fanbase. “Our experiences in London have always been memorable, so to return in 2025 as the first team to play in back-to-back international games in different countries was something we could not pass up,” he said. “UK fans have a history of showing up and embracing the Minnesota Vikings, creating what often feels like a homefield environment, and we are hopeful that is what we see again in 2025.”
The Vikings are scheduled to play the Pittsburgh Steelers in Dublin, Ireland, on September 28th at Croke Park, marking the NFL’s inaugural regular-season game in Ireland. The following week, on October 5th, the team will travel to London to face the Cleveland Browns at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. This unprecedented scheduling makes the Vikings the first NFL team to play international games in consecutive weeks in two different countries.
Wilf highlighted the unique opportunity these international games present for the team. “When you think about opportunities to play in unique atmospheres and environments that are experiences for your players, what better way to do that than to play in Dublin for the first time in the regular season, which is a big deal to us,” he commented. He also noted the potential for team bonding, stating, “It feels almost like a trip to allow us to come together closer than ever, build our team camaraderie and culture even stronger, which has been such a strong asset to us over three years here.”
The Vikings have a perfect 4-0 regular-season record in international games played in London and are optimistic about continuing their success overseas in this historic 2025 season.
