The New England Patriots are expanding their footprint in Europe.
In addition to their previously established link with Germany through the NFL's Global Markets Program, the Patriots on Tuesday received international marketing rights for neighboring Austria and Switzerland, as well.
The recently renamed Global Markets Program "grants NFL clubs access to international markets for marketing, fan engagement and commercialization activations as part of an important, long-term strategic effort to enable clubs to build their brands globally while driving NFL fan growth beyond the US," according to the league.
Twenty-one of the NFL's 32 teams participate, with several having agreements in multiple countries. A total of 14 countries across six continents are represented, with Austria, Switzerland, Ireland and Northern Ireland added this year.
The Patriots will play a game in Germany this season, taking on the Indianapolis Colts in Frankfurt on Nov. 12. It'll be New England's first international game since 2017 (Mexico City) and its first in Europe since 2012 (London).
"Think it's a great opportunity, great opportunity to grow the game," longtime Patriots center and co-captain David Andrews said earlier this month. "Super excited about it."
The Kansas City Chiefs, who also have a game in Frankfurt this season, and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who played in Munich last season, also received rights for Austria and Switzerland in addition to their connection with Germany.
