NFL CFO Christine Dorfler said that expanding globally is the league’s “top investment priority right now,” though it still has a “long way to go.” Appearing on the CNBC Sport podcast, Dorfler emphasized the NFL’s commitment to international growth, noting that the league is “certainly very mindful of everything going on domestically, internationally” in terms of economic uncertainties brought about by the actions of the Trump Administration. She indicated that from a global strategy perspective, the NFL does not anticipate any major disruptions, stating the uncertainty will not impact their intention to “enter into markets to grow fandom to play games” -- as the league has “good relationships” with international governments. NFL CRO Renie Anderson noted the success of last year’s Packers-Eagles game in Brazil, calling it a “mini Super Bowl” for that market. Anderson: “A higher percentage of those fans were local from Brazil. Our merchandise sales were through the roof. We had great partners come in and participate. We had a great halftime show.”
Also touched on during the podcast:
- Dorfler also pointed to the 2028 L.A. Games, where flag football will debut, as an important moment for the league. She said they do not want that to be “a one-and-done,” and that the NFL is “looking ahead” to having the sport at the 2032 Brisbane Games and “beyond that.”
- Dorfler pointed to the league’s media partnerships as key to growth, noting the league’s one-year media contracts and negotiated seven-year outs. Looking ahead, Dorfler said that the league is evaluating its options in light of recent developments across the industry. Dorfler: “We’re certainly looking at the environment, we’re certainly looking at the outcome of the NBA media rights deal, which was very successful for them ... we’re going to be mindful and thoughtful as we look at those seven-year outs. They were strategic for us, and we’re going to take a hard look” (“CNBC Sport,” CNBC.com, 4/23).
