The Jacksonville Jaguars, a professional football team in the National Football League (NFL), have recently become known for playing games in London, England. The decision to play games across the pond has been met with both excitement and confusion from fans and spectators alike.
So why do the Jaguars play in London? Let’s explore.
History
The NFL first hosted a regular-season game in London in 2007 between the New York Giants and Miami Dolphins. The game was considered a success and sparked interest in expanding American football to other parts of the world. In 2013, the NFL announced that it would host multiple games each year at Wembley Stadium, one of the most iconic stadiums in England.
The Jaguars’ Connection
In 2012, Shahid Khan, a billionaire businessman, purchased the Jacksonville Jaguars. Khan is also the owner of Fulham F.C., an English soccer team based in London. Khan believed that playing games in London would help grow the Jaguars’ brand internationally and increase revenue for both his football teams.
Impact on Revenue
The NFL has seen great success with its London games. In 2018, over 85,000 fans attended each game at Wembley Stadium. Additionally, these games are broadcasted globally and generate significant revenue for both the NFL and participating teams.
For smaller market teams like the Jaguars, playing in London can be especially beneficial as it provides opportunities to expand their fan base and increase revenue streams. This additional income can be used to improve facilities or invest in player development.
Criticism
Despite its financial benefits, some fans have criticized the decision to play games overseas. One argument is that it disrupts players’ routines as they have to travel further distances and adjust to different time zones. Others believe that hosting games abroad takes away from local fans who may not have the opportunity to attend games in person.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Jaguars play in London to expand their brand and increase revenue. While some may criticize this decision, it has proven to be successful for both the team and the NFL. As the league continues to grow globally, it’s likely that we’ll see more teams follow suit and play games overseas.