NFL touches down in London with Tottenham Hotspur decade-long stadium sharing deal
Tottenham Hotspur and the NFL have inked an ambitious stadium sharing deal that would see two American football matches a year played at the club’s in-development stadium.
The London-based side will for 10 years host top US football sides twice a year at its new arena from 2018, boasting a retractable grass field with an artificial surface underneath to accommodate the NFL players.
The inter-sports deal will effectively give the NFL solid footing to continue growing its appeal in the UK.
NFL commissioner Roger Goodell, said: “With growing enthusiasm for the NFL in the United Kingdom, we are committed to hosting NFL games in world-class venues and are excited to partner with Tottenham Hotspur to play games at their future stadium.
"We share a vision and commitment to creating the best experience for our teams, fans and the local community.”
Daniel Levy, chairman of Tottenham Hotspur, added: “We have an opportunity now to deliver one of the most unique sporting and entertainment venues in the world, bringing together the EPL and NFL for the first time.
“The socio-economic benefits this will bring to the area will be immense and demonstrates our commitment to the regeneration of this priority borough in London."
Images of the new stadium, which will be located in North Tottenham, will be released “shortly” according to the club as it moves on from the classic White Hart Lane venue.