First launched in 2022, the NFL's Global Markets Program awards clubs international marketing rights to build brand awareness and fandom beyond the U.S., through fan engagement, events, commercial opportunities and NFL Flag development.
The National Football League today announced an expansion of its Global Markets Program, with the Los Angeles Chargers officially joining the league initiative as an international marketing rights holder for Greece.
In total, 29 clubs will participate in the program across 21 international markets as the NFL continues to prioritize global growth.
"The homeland of my family, Greece has left an eternal imprint on my heart," said Controlling Owner & Chairman of the Board Dean Spanos, who was honored by The Hellenic Post and the International Foundation for Greece this past October at the Acropolis Museum in Athens with a commemorative postage stamp currently in circulation throughout the country. "So when the opportunity to grow NFL Football and the Los Angeles Chargers' brand in Greece presented itself, we simply couldn't pass it up.
"With Ancient Greece home to the first recorded Olympic Games in 776 BC and host of the inaugural Summer Olympics in 1896, it seems only natural to bring what I consider to be the best game in the world to, quite literally, the birthplace of sport. We couldn't be more excited to connect with Greeks from all walks of life, make an impact on their communities and share our passion for the game we love."
With a focus on grass roots initiatives including youth camps and clinics, the creation of NFL Flag leagues, community enhancement projects and gameday activations, the Chargers will officially kick off their efforts in Greece with a 2025 NFL Draft Day 3 Pick announcement live from Athens.
"The expansion of the Global Markets Program in 2025 reflects the NFL's continued focus to grow the game and connect with fans on a global scale," said NFL Executive Vice President, Club Business, Major Events & International Peter O'Reilly. "With more clubs entering the program and existing clubs adding to their global rights, and as the program expands to new markets, we are seeing strong momentum and impact in growing fandom worldwide together."
NFL clubs can apply for rights to international markets by submitting proposals to the International Committee for review each spring. Clubs are awarded rights for at least a five-year term through the program, and during this period can pursue activities in that international market that are consistent with what they can do in their home market.
For more information on NFL International, visit: https://www.nfl.com/international/
