The NFL Is Returning To London In October
The National Football League announced plans to return to London this October after a one-year hiatus due to coronavirus. This was the first time since 2007 that the NFL did not play in the capital.
Pending the situation’s continued improvement, the Atlanta Falcons are set to host the New York Jets on Oct. 10. One week later, the Jacksonville Jaguars will take on the Miami Dolphins. All matches will take place at the home of the English Premier Leagues Tottenham Hotspurs.
“We are excited to be returning to London and welcoming back our fans for two great matchups,” stated Christopher Halpin, the NFL’s executive vice president. “We expect these games to be a celebration of our sport and our robust UK fanbase.
“We have been working closely with the UK government, the city of London and the relevant health organisations over the past year in planning the games.
“Through their successful vaccine rollout and commitment to bringing crowds back to sports events, the time is right for the return of NFL football this fall.
“We will continue to monitor the Covid environment, putting health and safety first, and will adhere to any and all future Covid regulations and restrictions.”
British politician Oliver Dowden spoke outwardly that the NFL’s decision to attempt to return to London this year was a testament to the UK’s handling of the pandemic.
“The NFL has become a regular fixture in the UK’s brilliant sporting calendar and I’m delighted to welcome the league back to London for another season,” stated Dowden.
“This is a major vote of confidence in our country’s progress to bring coronavirus under control and our ability to stage major sporting events safely.
“Our Events Research Programme is playing an important role in testing the safe return of fans and will inform our decision-making on getting people back watching live sport again safely in greater numbers.”
In total, London has hosted 28 games in London since 2007. The city has truly become a second home for the Jaguars coming to play their eighth-game in the city’s capital. The Jaguars are returning for the fifth time.
