Vikings Accept Double European Challenge: Dublin and London in the NFL

The Vikings face an unprecedented challenge with consecutive international matches

The NFL expanded its global reach this spring, presenting a unique challenge: for the first time, a team would play consecutive international games in different countries. The Minnesota Vikings were selected for this task, with games scheduled in Ireland and England in weeks 4 and 5, respectively. The news generated reactions throughout the league. Vikings Vice President of Health and Performance, Tyler Williams, commented that many in the NFL were wondering what they had done to deserve this assignment. The team recognizes the logistical challenge it represents, but sees it as an opportunity.

“A lot of people came up and said, ‘What did you do to the NFL to get this?'” Williams said.

Tyler Williams, Vice President of Health and Performance for the Vikings

Despite being the visiting team in both games, against the Steelers in Dublin and the Browns in London, the Vikings expect strong local support in both cities. Keisha Wyatt, the Vikings’ international marketing director, estimates that 40% of the fans at Croke Park in Dublin and up to 60% at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London will be Vikings supporters. This support could neutralize two of the nine away games the Vikings would play in 2025.

The owners Zygi and Mark Wilf have actively driven international expansion, and enthusiastically accepted the league’s proposal. Mark Wilf highlighted the importance of the sport’s growth and the enthusiasm it generates. The team has invested time and resources in preparing the players for this challenge.

“We are focused on the club, but also on the growth of the league and the sport,” said Mark Wilf. “The more the business grows, the more the fanbase grows, and that excites everyone.”

Mark Wilf, Owner of the Vikings

The Jacksonville Jaguars have played consecutive games in London, but the NFL was looking to test a more extensive European experience, and found a willing partner in the Vikings.

“They are certainly a club that has gotten involved in the international opportunity,” said Peter O’Reilly, executive vice president of club business, international events and league business.

Peter O’Reilly, Executive Vice President of Club Business, International Events and League Business.

Last season, the Vikings faced the Jets in London. This time, they will face the Browns in Week 5, after playing against the Steelers in Dublin the previous week.Since the arrival of coach Kevin O’Connell in 2022, the Vikings have played twice in London, winning both games. The team has developed a routine that includes a late arrival during the week and a period of adaptation to the time zone. Players and coaches receive support with melatonin and other sleep aids, in addition to encouraging caffeine consumption and exposure to sunlight. Then, they conduct a recognition practice in the morning. The main difference is that the Vikings will not return to Minnesota after the game against the Steelers. They will remain in Dublin, travel to London on Monday afternoon, and follow their normal practice schedule. The transition between Dublin and London, and the full week there, took up a large part of the Vikings staff’s planning. The team’s operations director, Paul Martin, will be responsible for the collection and distribution of passports, as well as the electronic travel authorization visas required to enter England. In addition, Ben Hawkins, the team’s lead dietitian, estimates that they will provide 7,000 meals during the trip. The team will ship non-perishable foods and combine them with fresh local ingredients. Food trucks will be used at hotels and training facilities. Mike Parson, the equipment manager, will be in charge of the logistics for the training facilities and locker rooms in both locations. Parson’s staff packed two semi-trailers full of supplies, which arrived on a cargo ship in New York on June 30. Some of the equipment will be in Dublin and the rest will be transferred to Hanbury Manor, their base in London. Some equipment will be sent from Dublin to London by ferry. The team must also be prepared for potential changes to the roster. Vikings personnel would typically use the equipment room tools to sew a nameplate onto a player’s jersey. If this were to occur in London, the NFL has offered recommendations for local tailors.

“Planning for this consumes our life until the trip ends,” said Parson.

Mike Parson, Equipment Manager

Justin Jefferson caught six of 14 targets for 92 yards last season, when the Vikings played the Jets at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London.This trip offers commercial advantages for the team’s ownership and the league, and could provide a competitive advantage on the field. However, it will also take players and coaches away from home for a longer period than in any other season in NFL history. Many players find comfort in having their families at away games, but this year they will have to travel more. Defensive end Jonathan Greenard commented on the schedule announcement on social media. Greenard clarified that he was referring to the travel logistics for his family. The team officials have sought ways to present the trip in the most positive way possible.

“You can look at it as a glass half empty or half full and try to turn it into an advantage,” Williams said.

Tyler Williams, Vice President of Health and Performance for the Vikings

The Vikings will have time to rest after the trip due to their bye week. Ultimately, the Vikings have made a calculated bet that they have the infrastructure and behind-the-scenes talent to support the ambitions of their owners and the NFL in general.

“Knowing that this group not only exists, but how they work together, how each decision is made and, ultimately, how I know that every decision being made is made in the best interest of our players, that’s what I believe makes us the right team to do this,” O’Connell said.

Kevin O’Connell, Vikings Coach