The NFL deemed the Tennessee Titans worthy of being granted international marketing rights, which will introduce the entire league globally. Interestingly, Tennessee did not receive entry into the Greek market, given the historical context behind the team’s name. It’s also a surprise that the Hellenic ties weren’t expounded upon in Nashville, especially with the smaller-scale Parthenon. Instead, the league entered the Titans into a partnership with the sovereign Republic of Ireland, not to be mistaken with the UK-administered region of Northern Ireland.
A fun #Titans business-side story to report:
The NFL is granting the Titans its first international marketing partnership… in Ireland.
It’s Shamrock Titans time. https://t.co/gP9uIsx1by
— Nick Suss (@nicksuss) May 20, 2025
Tennessee Titans Granted Prestigious International Marketing Rights
Ireland is a country that has increasingly embraced the American football culture with its annual Aer Lingus Football Classic. The first one started in 2016, when ACC rivals Boston College played Georgia Tech. Prestigious programs like Notre Dame, Florida State, and the Naval Academy have played in Dublin. The 2026 game will feature Bill Belichick’s North Carolina against Big 12 power TCU.
The NFL has increased its efforts to exert its unassailable dominion over American sports onto the global stage with games worldwide. Ireland will host its first NFL game when the Vikings and Steelers face off in Week 4.
Who are the Designated Teams in each market?
All 32 NFL teams are now officially part of the league’s Global Markets Program — a major step in the NFL’s continued international expansion. The program now spans 21 international markets, giving teams the rights to engage in marketing, fan events, and commercial opportunities… pic.twitter.com/8ksB6utwtr
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) May 20, 2025
The Titans enter a hornet’s nest of multiple teams vying for the hearts and minds of Ireland, competing with the Steelers, Jets, Packers, Chiefs, and the “officially unofficial” home team of the United Kingdom, the Jaguars. It won’t be easy for Tennessee to carve out a share of the marketplace, considering the dynastic Chiefs’ reign and the Steelers’ inherent advantage. Pittsburgh has the benefit of having owners of Irish descent and an impressive history to fall back on. Former Steelers’ owner Dan Rooney served as an ambassador to Ireland during the Obama administration, furthering ties to the nation.
How can Tennessee establish itself as one of the premier teams in Ireland?
The Titans are furthering ties with Dublin, as Nashville arranged direct flights between the two cities. Tennessee Titans CEO Burke Nihill released a statement promoting the extensive cultural relations between the sister cities.
“Both Nashville and Ireland are deeply rooted in music, storytelling, and community pride. This partnership allows us to authentically connect with Irish fans while promoting the shared values and cultural bonds between our regions,” said Burke Nihill, Titans President and CEO. “We see this as a tremendous opportunity to grow our fan base, foster new relationships, and promote the best of Music City abroad.”
According to the press release extolling the new arrangement, the Titans will host youth football camps, cheer events, and musically entwined performances to get their foot in the door. They could also send team ambassadors to the SSE Airtricity Men’s Premier Division (the Irish version of the Premier League). Hosting notable Irish footballers like the erstwhile linguistically savvy Roy Keane, Denis Irwin, and Michael Obafemi would benefit Nashville SC and the Titans. Can the newly crowned franchise quarterback Cam Ward lead Tennessee to gain a foothold in Ireland and beyond?
Main Image: Steve Roberts – USA Today Sports
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