Sometimes, coincidences happen. Sometimes, they don’t.
That same weekend, the federal government Obtain regulatory approval The NFL and ESPN’s large media merger will see the league acquire 10% ownership of ESPN. The NFL has signed a unique “memorandum of understanding” with the U.S. State Department.
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pass sports business magazineThe agreement between the NFL and the State Department launches “a public-private partnership centered on sports diplomacy by expanding American football in global markets.”
According to the MOU, the NFL will “continue to host football events, clinics and training sessions abroad and, where possible, provide players, coaches and program materials in the league’s priority global markets.” The league and the State Department will “collaborate around international competitions and convene U.S. and foreign leaders to support sports diplomacy.”
In addition, the State Department will help the league “identify priority regions and countries for joint initiatives and coordinate with U.S. embassies and consulates to support the execution of NFL international games and related programs.”
Finally, the State Department will “support international flag football tournaments, training camps and exchanges.”
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This situation can be viewed from many different angles. This is one. The NFL is courting the State Department to better implement its long-term plan to globalize the sport through the popularity of tackle football and flag football.
It’s unclear what the State Department can do beyond its ties to a powerful and unique American brand that can be the driving force that pushes the door further open as allies and/or foes try to get a piece of the pig-rind apple pie that is football.