The NFL Dublin Game 2026 marks a major milestone in the NFL’s International Series, as regular-season American football comes to Ireland for the second time. On September 2025, the Pittsburgh Steelers will face the Minnesota Vikings at the historic Croke Park in Dublin. This highly anticipated fixture forms part of a record-breaking international slate for the league, with Ireland joining the UK, Germany, Spain, and Brazil as host nations. The event is a clear signal of the NFL’s growing commitment to international expansion.
NFL Dublin Game 2026: Match Details, Date and Venue
The game is scheduled for Week 4 of the 2026 season, with kick-off at 3:30 PM local time on 28 September. The Steelers will serve as the home team, while the Vikings — unbeaten in international games — will make their fifth appearance abroad. This match marks the beginning of a historic back-to-back for Minnesota, who will travel to London the following week to play the Browns. Croke Park, Ireland’s largest stadium and a revered venue in Gaelic sports, offers state-of-the-art facilities and a capacity of over 80,000, making it the perfect stage for this landmark encounter.
Organised in partnership with the Government of Ireland and Dublin City Council, the NFL Dublin Game reflects Ireland’s rising profile as a hub for global sport. The Steelers are a natural fit for this occasion, with strong ancestral ties to Ireland through the Rooney family. The game also strengthens the NFL’s presence in Europe, alongside other fixtures such as the NFL London Games 2025 and the upcoming clash in Spain, detailed in the NFL Madrid Game 2025. Dublin now joins this growing list of cities hosting elite American football, helping to lay the foundation for more events in years to come.
NFL Dublin Game 2026 Ticket Prices
Official ticket prices for the NFL Dublin Game 2026 have yet to be released. However, they are expected to follow a similar structure to other international NFL fixtures, such as the NFL London Games 2026. Based on previous editions, fans can anticipate the following estimated pricing tiers:
- Sideline Premium: €500 – €600
- Lower Stand: €350 – €450
- Upper Stand Premium: €250 – €350
- Upper Stand Standard: €150 – €250
- Restricted View: €75 – €125
As this will be the first regular-season NFL game held in Ireland, demand is expected to be extremely high. Supporters eager to attend the NFL Dublin Game 2026 should prepare to book tickets promptly once sales open. Multiple seating options will cater to different budgets, and premium categories may include hospitality upgrades or exclusive access zones.
Visitors planning to travel to Dublin are strongly advised to arrange accommodation well in advance. The city offers a wide range of options, from upscale hotels to affordable hostels. Neighbourhoods such as Temple Bar, Ballsbridge, and the Docklands provide excellent access to Croke Park and the city’s vibrant cultural scene. Dublin’s efficient public transport system — including buses, Luas trams, and DART trains — makes it easy to navigate. With thousands of fans expected from across Europe and beyond, early planning will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable stay.
The History of NFL Games in Ireland
While the NFL Dublin Game 2026 will be the second regular-season NFL game in Ireland, the country has long embraced American football. The Steelers themselves played a pre-season game at Croke Park in 1997 against the Chicago Bears, and the NFL has continued to strengthen its presence in Ireland through various initiatives. The 2025 fixture will mark the league’s official competitive debut in the country, bringing top-tier NFL action to Irish soil in front of a full-capacity crowd.
With Ireland’s rich sporting heritage, from Gaelic football and hurling to rugby and football, hosting an NFL match at Croke Park is a natural progression. The stadium has welcomed many historic events, including the Special Olympics Opening Ceremony in 2003 and major international music acts such as U2, Bruce Springsteen, and Taylor Swift. The NFL’s return to this iconic venue reflects the growing popularity of American football across the country.
Upcoming NFL Dublin Games
The NFL Dublin Game 2026 marks the beginning of a new chapter for American football in Ireland. On 28 September 2025, the Pittsburgh Steelers will host the Minnesota Vikings in Week 4 of the NFL season. This historic fixture will be the first of a back-to-back international stretch for the Vikings, who are also scheduled to face the Cleveland Browns in London just one week later. Notably, the Vikings have an undefeated record in their previous international appearances, while the Steelers are aiming for their first victory overseas.
American football is gaining momentum in Ireland, with more young athletes taking up the sport. The NFL’s presence has been boosted by initiatives such as NFL Flag Ireland, which introduced the game to schools across the country. In 2024, the first-ever NFL Flag National Championships took place in Dublin, with the winning team representing Ireland at the Pro Bowl Games in the U.S. This surge in participation and enthusiasm demonstrates the sport’s growing appeal, making the NFL Dublin Game 2026 an exciting milestone in its development.
The NFL Dublin Game 2026 is part of the league’s broader international expansion strategy. With growing support from Irish fans and an increasing interest in American football across Europe, the NFL is reinforcing its global presence. The Steelers’ deep ties to Ireland make them the perfect team to represent the league in this groundbreaking fixture. This event is expected to strengthen local interest in the sport, paving the way for more NFL activities in Ireland in the future.
FAQ about the NFL Dublin Game 2026
When will the NFL Dublin Game 2026 take place?
The NFL Dublin Game 2026 will be played on Sunday, 28 September 2026 at Croke Park in Dublin. Kick-off is scheduled for 3:30 PM local time.
Which teams will play in the NFL Dublin Game?
The game will feature the Pittsburgh Steelers as the home team, facing the Minnesota Vikings. This marks the first regular-season NFL fixture ever held in Ireland.
Where can I buy tickets for the NFL Dublin Game?
Tickets for the NFL Dublin Game 2026 will be available via official NFL ticketing platforms. Fans are advised to register early for alerts once sales open.
Why is the NFL hosting a game in Dublin?
The NFL Dublin Game 2026 is part of the league’s international expansion strategy. Ireland was selected due to its growing fan base and historic ties to the NFL, particularly through the Steelers’ Irish heritage.