NFL in London

National Football League in London

NFL London

Tom Brady Roast Review

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With the NFL season still months away, fans are Jonesing for anything football related to satiate the feels, so when Netflix released the Roast of Tom Brady on Sunday, fans were thrilled to get a bit of football to soothe those DTs.

So was it any good? Is it worth watching? Does TB12 cry? Let’s break some of it all down in our Tom Brady Roast Review.

Roasts

Anyone with a love of comedy will remember the notorious Friar’s Club Roasts that emerged out of a vaudeville era. As the Roasts grew in the 70s’, so was the appetite for celebrities to be roasted by famous comedians and other celebs to validate their ego in a slosh filled affair.

When comedian Jeffrey Ross pushed to reinvigorate the format in the early 2000s’, we were treated to some of the most outrageous and bawdy comedic lines in history. The Roasts of David Hasselhoff and Pamela Anderson had the likes of Greg Goraoldo, Lisa Lampanelli, and some of the harshest take downs in history.

Recently however, celebrities have been coy to attend given that any of their past deeds to could be brought up, and flashed in their face. To put it plainly, celebs today are too much of a pussy to take it.

Brady Steps Up

Is was good of Tom Brady to put himself up for this, even if it was probably his management to add a bit of humanity to him before his Fox gig.

Brady was a good sport about the various digs about his failed marriage, leaving a pregnant ex, and deflating balls. It seems that the only thing that really irked Tommy was when Jeff Ross made a masturbatory joke at the expense of Robert Kraft, which caused Tom to get out of his seat and remonstrate Ross with a quick ‘don’t do that shit again.’

Apparently there were boundaries.

The Niki Glaser Show

They might as well have given the whole roast to comedian Niki Glaser, who was most definitely the funniest person on the dais Sunday night. Anyone who says ‘women aren’t funny’ might want to see the master craft set that Niki blasted at Tom in a relentless fashion.

Cool, collected and with impeccable Swiss timing, Glaser was able to set the bar so high, that even Randy Moss seemed high when he followed her. Her shots at Gronk were so savage, it’s doubtful that he even got them.

Niki is one of the ‘old school’ roasters on the panel, and it was easy to see why she was the best, and so hard to follow.

Jew Bledsoe

Aside from the typical American race-bait jokes, it was interesting to see Drew Bledsoe toss a little antisemitism Julian Edleman’s way. Not only did Drew shade Edelman’s heritage, but also threw in a few ‘Jewy’ jokes about him haggling his own contract, and be able to switch from a nickel to a dime with added value.

Bledsoe extolled the virtues of winery and marriage, neither of which seemed to be in attendance that night as he was cast off to the side by himself.

Kim K

It wouldn’t be LA (or Englewood) without having a Kardashian at the Roast, as Kim represented her clan to a shower of boos from the home crowd.

Despite the assistance of numerous writers, Kardashian, like many non-comics struggled to get the belly laughs, and consistent ribbing.

Tom was able to lob a funny ‘Kanye’ fathering joke at Kim, which deflated any reason for her to be there.

Roasts are a good indicator of the ‘natural funny’ of a person, and Kim certainly doesn’t have it.

Where’s the Booze?

For a 3+ hour affair that is usually flushed with booze, most of the panel seemed to hold an empty glass for most of the evening.

Drew Bledsoe was wireless as he talked about being winless, Brady had 2 empty glasses on the go, and Kevin Hart seemed like he was smashed from the start, and got drunker and surlier as the night went on.

Although Bill Belichick was never shown drinking, he bounced around that microphone like he had a few. And when Brady hit him later with the dig about doing the dirty and getting caught on a Ring, well that was just hilarious.

All in all it was a fun roast, but  along roast. Netflix will be hoping to smash more of these sports events down our throats to atone for those years of ‘wokrness’, but it will be interesting to see if anyone will have the stones to be able to take a good bashing.

Good on Tom Brady for taking it.

 

 

 

History of London Games

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The NFL has had a powerful impact on London, so much so that we wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for their commitment to establishing it here. 

So let’s take a look at the History of the London Games to give us a little perspective on how indelible the league has been in setting up shop in London, allowing it to pivot internationally to great success. 

And we’re very happy that they did!

In October 2007, Wembley Stadium witnessed history as it hosted the inaugural NFL game in London. The matchup between the Miami Dolphins and the New York Giants marked the beginning of a new era for American football fans in the UK and Europe. With over 81,000 spectators filling the iconic venue, the atmosphere was electric as fans eagerly embraced the opportunity to experience the excitement of NFL football on British soil.

Evolution of the International Series

What started as an experimental venture to gauge international interest in American football has since evolved into an annual tradition cherished by fans across the globe. Over the years, the NFL International Series has grown in scope and significance, with multiple games now held at various venues across London. From Wembley Stadium to Twickenham Stadium and Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, each venue has played host to thrilling matchups and unforgettable moments.

Now look at the NFL, it’s everywhere on TV and streaming shows. The sheer power of the league and its commitment to London is a testament to the power of the game, and the NFL. 

Camaraderie Among Fans

One of the most remarkable aspects of the NFL’s presence in London is the sense of camaraderie and community it fosters among fans. Regardless of team allegiance, supporters from all walks of life come together to celebrate their shared love of the game. Tailgate parties, fan rallies, and meet-and-greets with NFL legends have become integral parts of the London game-day experience, creating a vibrant atmosphere that transcends borders and cultures.

Look at any London NFL game and you’ll see a swath of various jerseys from current to fantasy. The Brits love fancy dress, so don’t expect them to come dressed in battle uniform, it’s supposed to be about personality. 

Thrilling Comebacks and Overtime Dramas

On the field, NFL games played in London have produced no shortage of memorable moments and dramatic finishes. From thrilling come-from-behind victories to nail-biting overtime showdowns, each game has provided fans with heart-stopping excitement and edge-of-your-seat action. Whether it’s a game-winning touchdown catch in the final seconds or a game-saving interception in overtime, every play leaves an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of fans.

Every year the games get better, and that’s a good thing. 

NFL’s Impact on UK and European Culture

Beyond the gridiron, the NFL International Series has had a profound impact on UK and European culture. Through initiatives such as NFL UK Academy and NFL Flag Football, the league has invested in grassroots development programs aimed at nurturing the next generation of talent. By promoting inclusivity and diversity, the NFL has not only expanded the reach of American football but also enriched the sporting landscape in the UK and Europe.

You can see it on the high streets and shops, as NFL merch is growing in street popularity with the kids. The NFL is cool yo!

The Bright Future of the NFL in London

As the NFL International Series continues to evolve and grow, the future looks brighter than ever for American football in London and beyond. With the recent addition of regular-season games in other European cities, such as Mexico City and Munich, the league’s global footprint continues to expand. With each passing year, the spirit of the game continues to unite fans across continents, celebrating the shared joy of gridiron glory.

And a a week 1 game in Brazil between the Eagles and Packers? C’mon!

We here at NFL in London sure look forward to putting on more fantastic events for the fans. 

Highest Scoring London Games

The London games have been notoriously low scoring affairs thanks to numerous reasons, but that doesn’t mean that the capital hasn’t seen its share of exciting matches.

Here are some of the highest scoring NFL games that London has hosted over the past 17 years, and there have been a lot of them.

Please let us know what your favourite London games have been, and be sure to add photos!

Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Indianapolis Colts
October 2, 2016

Jaguars 30, Colts 27

In a thrilling matchup, the Jaguars and Colts traded blows throughout the game. Jaguars quarterback Blake Bortles threw for over 300 yards and a touchdown, while running back T.J. Yeldon rushed for a score. The Colts, led by quarterback Andrew Luck, mounted a late comeback attempt, but a decisive interception by Jaguars’ safety Clayton Geathers sealed the victory for Jacksonville in front of a raucous London crowd.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Carolina Panthers
October 13, 2019

Panthers 37, Buccaneers 26

The Buccaneers and Panthers engaged in a high-scoring shootout, with both offenses lighting up the scoreboard. Panthers quarterback Kyle Allen threw for over 200 yards and two touchdowns, while running back Christian McCaffrey dominated with over 150 yards from scrimmage and two touchdowns. Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston countered with over 400 passing yards and two touchdowns, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Panthers’ offensive onslaught.

Los Angeles Chargers vs. Tennessee Titans
October 21, 2018

Chargers 20, Titans 19

In a closely contested battle, the Chargers and Titans exchanged field goals and touchdowns throughout the game. Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota orchestrated a late scoring drive to put Tennessee ahead, but a missed two-point conversion sealed their fate. Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers led a game-winning drive, culminating in a touchdown pass to wide receiver Mike Williams. The Chargers’ defense held firm in the final moments to secure the narrow victory.

Detroit Lions vs. Atlanta Falcons
October 26, 2014

Lions 22, Falcons 21

The Lions staged a remarkable fourth-quarter comeback to defeat the Falcons in a thrilling contest. Trailing by 21 points at halftime, Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford rallied his team with over 300 passing yards and two touchdowns. The game-winning score came on a late touchdown pass from Stafford to wide receiver Golden Tate, capping off a dramatic comeback victory for Detroit in front of an enthusiastic London crowd.

Miami Dolphins vs. New York Jets
October 4, 2015

Dolphins 27, Jets 14

The Dolphins controlled the game from start to finish, dominating the Jets on both sides of the ball. Dolphins quarterback Ryan Tannehill threw for over 200 yards and two touchdowns, while the defense stifled the Jets’ offense, forcing multiple turnovers. Jets quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick struggled to find rhythm against Miami’s defense, managing only one touchdown pass in a disappointing performance for New York.

These game highlights showcase the excitement and drama of the highest-scoring NFL games played in London, underscoring the growing popularity of American football in the UK and Europe. It’s only getting bigger and better thanks to the bright, big minds at the NFLUK.

Hopefully with more NFL games hitting Europe in upcoming years, we’ll see some big scores to reward the fans who love the NFL so much. 

London NFL Stadium Guide

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The NFL has been coming to London for over 40 years now, and show no signs of slowing down with the league announcing international games at an increasing level every year.
So which London stadiums have played a part in the NFL, and where can you find them? 

Let’s step into the vibrant tapestry of London’s sporting scene, where the echoes of cheering crowds and the excitement of athletic endeavours converge in majestic stadiums. Join us as we embark on a journey through the iconic venues that define London’s sporting legacy, from the hallowed grounds of football to the thrilling spectacles of NFL action.
It’s our London NFL Stadium Guide!

Wembley Stadium: A Monument to Sporting Greatness

Wembley Stadium stands as a towering symbol of sporting excellence, with a capacity surpassing 90,000 spectators. Since its inception in 1923, this legendary venue has witnessed countless historic football matches, including FA Cup finals and international showdowns. Since 2007, Wembley tops the London list-having hosted a whopping 25 NFL games since then, including some truly magical games.
Wembley is quickly becoming the home of the Jacksonville Jaguars, as they continue to make in-roads into the UK and Europe.

Tottenham Hotspur Stadium: Where Innovation Meets Athleticism

Enter the futuristic realm of Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, a modern marvel that sets new standards for sporting excellence. Since its inauguration in 2019, this state-of-the-art arena has captivated fans with its innovative design and electrifying atmosphere, having hosted 7 NFL regular season games since opening. With a seating capacity exceeding 62,000 and boasting a stadium to ‘keep people in’, it serves as the battleground for Tottenham Hotspur’s footballing dreams.
Tottenham is the only UK stadium that was purpose built for North American sports, and has set a template for other stadiums in Europe to follow. 

Twickenham Stadium: Rugby’s Regal Domain

Nestled amidst the serene surroundings of Twickenham, this majestic stadium reigns supreme as the Mecca of rugby union. Boasting a capacity exceeding 82,000, Twickenham Stadium has played host to some of the sport’s most memorable moments, from epic Six Nations clashes to Rugby World Cup showdowns. Twickenham was also home to London NFL games from 2016-2017, hosting 3 games in southwest London. Known for having food vendors selling food in front of their houses near the stadium, Twickenham served as a placeholder stadium while the Tottenham stadium was being built. 

Saracens Rugby Ground: A Fusion of Sporting Cultures

While not a traditional stadium, Saracens Rugby Ground holds a unique place in London’s sporting tapestry. As the training grounds for NFL teams before their London fixtures, it serves as a hub where rugby and American football intersect. Amidst the lush green fields of rugby majesty, NFL stars prepare for the rigours of game day, showcasing the city’s diverse sporting offerings. Given the proximity to The Grove Hotel where many NFL teams stay, Saracens Rugby Ground will continue to be the place where teams get ready before their London showcase. 

Emirates Stadium: Arsenal’s Fortress of Football

In the bustling borough of Islington stands Emirates Stadium, the proud home of Arsenal Football Club. With a capacity surpassing 60,000, it’s a cathedral of football that has witnessed countless moments of triumph and glory. While Emirates Stadium has yet to host NFL action, its status as a premier footballing venue underscores its significance in London’s sporting landscape.
It would take some serious renovation work to get Emirates stadium ready for an NFL game, it’s a great venue to check out when you’re in London and want to catch a bit of footie. 

In the dynamic metropolis of London, where sporting passions run deep and the spirit of competition thrives, the grandest stadiums stand as monuments to athleticism and communal fervour. From footballing cathedrals to the thrilling allure of NFL action, these iconic venues offer a glimpse into the heart and soul of London’s vibrant sporting scene. So, whether you’re cheering on your favourite football team or marvelling at the athleticism of NFL stars, prepare to be swept away on a journey of sporting splendour unlike any other.
Next time you come to London, why not check out some of the iconic stadiums? 

Super Bowl in London

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It’s that time of year again folks, as we get peppered with the big question of where to watch the Super Bowl in London.
With COVID finally in the clear, and the restaurant industry somewhat bouncing back, it seems like that people are going out again.
So let’s take a look at some of the places the Super Bowl in the UK and across London.

Watching the Super Bowl in London

We are hosting a few private parties again this year, but that doesn’t mean that there aren’t some great places to watch the big game.
With an 11:30pm start time, the Super Bowl will require venues to get a late license, something some of them forget when it comes to midnight (oops!).

So while we aren’t working with any bars directly this year, we can’t really recommend any of them with our having talked to the venue of looking at their set up and prices.
If you are a venue who is looking to promote your Super Bowl party in London, feel free to get in touch.

Home

The cost of living continues to bite, with the pint of a London pint now topping £7 for a tipple. Factor in buying rounds, food, and possibly tickets, and the price of going out to the Super Bowl is more than double what it was 5 years ago. Ouch.
ITV will be showing the Super Bowl, and being able to watch it at home means that you can not only save some dosh by not having to pay for overpriced beer, but you can also watch the game in your jammie pants.
Having mates around for the game can make for great traditions, especially if you add in pregame poker, bbq’s, Super Bowl squares and even some Madden to sweeten up the stakes.
A great Super Bowl home game is also a chance to be able to connect with many of your fantasy football teammates you never get a chance to connect in person with.

Casinos

London has several casinos in patches of the city that offer all night entertainment, and connectivity to transit. The Empire in Leicester Square has a sports bar, as do ones in Mayfair, and Stratford. Make sure that you contact the casino first to see if they have tables and what offers they might have. If you’re used to American sized casinos you will be shocked to find that many of their sports bar viewing options are quite small.

American Bars

There are plenty of American themed bars that are open late, and offer authentic Super Bowl experiences for fans. Hotel bars like the American Bar or Duck and Waffle offer premium menus and sophisticated ways to watch the Chiefs vs 49ers.

Bars

Again, we can’t vouch for any of these bars who are offering Super Bowl parties on social media, but from experience we can offer some words of caution when looking to book.
How late does the late license go until? Some venues might only get it until 1am, forcing viewers to scoot home to catch the second half. When do you stop serving? Some licenses might only have a liquor license until 1am as well.
If they usually don’t show the NFL, then you might be in for a frustrating experience, and menus are often subpar, an ‘pub chain’ microwave in the bag portions.
The worst Super Bowl parties are the ones where you are your friends have to head home after a night of bad service, 1 tv, and just sadness.

If you have some places you would like to promote, get in touch and we can look at how we can help. Hope that helps some fans looking to branch out for their own Super Bowl parties in London.

 

 

Super Bowl Parties 2024

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Are you a bar or venue looking to host Super Bowl parties in 2024?
Why not reach out to us and we can include you in some of our UK listings?

As the much-anticipated Super Bowl approaches, the excitement is palpable, and fans across the United Kingdom are gearing up to celebrate the biggest event in American sports. For pubs and bars, this presents a golden opportunity to elevate the festivities by hosting Super Bowl parties that will not only attract a diverse crowd but also provide a unique and unforgettable experience. We have over 20 years of hosting NFL events in the UK, so we can help promote your event to our wide audience.

The Allure of the Super Bowl

The Super Bowl is more than just a football game; it’s a cultural phenomenon that captivates millions around the world. From the electrifying halftime show to the highly anticipated commercials, the event has transcended sports, becoming a global spectacle that unites people of all backgrounds. By hosting a Super Bowl party, pubs and bars have the opportunity to tap into this cultural excitement, drawing in patrons who may not be regular visitors.

Why Host a Super Bowl Party?

1.Increased Foot Traffic:
The Super Bowl is known for drawing in a massive viewership. By hosting a party, pubs and bars can attract football enthusiasts and casual viewers alike, boosting foot traffic and creating a vibrant atmosphere. You also get loads of loyal new fans who know that you are ‘cool’.

2. Extended Business Hours:
The Super Bowl is an evening event, making it an excellent opportunity for pubs and bars to extend their business hours. This can result in increased sales and a chance to showcase the venue’s offerings to a larger audience. Get a late license, and watch the fans roll in.

3. Community Engagement:
Super Bowl parties are a great way to bring the local community together. By hosting an event, pubs and bars can foster a sense of camaraderie, turning their establishments into hubs for socializing and celebration. As a pub you might not know how many NFL fans actually live in your area.

4. Promotional Opportunities:
Hosting a Super Bowl party provides pubs and bars with a unique chance to launch special promotions, such as themed menus, drink specials, and exclusive offers. This can not only attract new customers but also encourage repeat business. Remember being authentic is important to NFL fans.

How to Get Involved

If you’re a pub or bar owner looking to capitalize on the Super Bowl hype, getting involved is easier than you might think. First off, get in contact with us and we can list you o our events page. If you want to promote your event even further, we can help there too.
Some key tips to make your Super Bowl party a success this year includes:

1. Promote in Advance:
Start by creating awareness about your Super Bowl party well in advance. Utilize social media, local newspapers, and your establishment’s website to spread the word.

2. Create a Game-Day Atmosphere:
Enhance the viewing experience by decorating your venue with Super Bowl-themed items. Consider adding large screens or projectors to ensure everyone has a clear view of the game. It’s all about the experience, and we can offer some great tips to make it more authentically North American.

3. Offer Specials and Packages:
To entice patrons, consider crafting special food and drink packages for the event. Whether it’s discounted pitchers of beer, themed cocktails, or appetizer platters, attractive offerings can make your Super Bowl party stand out.

4. Collaborate with Local Businesses:
Partner with local businesses for cross-promotions. If you pub doesn’t serve food, then perhaps  team up with a nearby pizza or wing place for special delivery deals during the game. Also reach out to local American Football clubs, whose members might want to attend.

With the Super Bowl just around the corner, the time is ripe for UK pubs and bars to seize the opportunity and host unforgettable Super Bowl parties, so reach out to us and we can give you some options as to how to make it a memorable experience.
By tapping into the global excitement surrounding the event, these establishments can elevate their customer experience, boost their business, and become the go-to destination for an evening of fun, camaraderie, and, of course, football.
Are you ready for the Super Bowl in Las Vegas this year?
Bring it on!