Vikings Set to Make History with Ireland's First NFL Regular Season Game

The Minnesota Vikings are set to make history as they prepare for their first-ever NFL regular season game in Ireland, scheduled for September 28 against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Dublin's Croke Park. This marks a significant milestone, as it will be the first regular-season NFL game played on Irish soil, following a preseason matchup in 1997.

As of Wednesday morning, tickets remain available, but demand has surged. "Demand vastly outstripped the supply of tickets," noted Conor Brophy, host of the NFL Irish Podcast. At one point, over 600,000 fans were in the queue for just 76,000 available tickets.

Vikings supporters are taking to social media, showcasing their purple gear and seeking advice on accommodations and activities in Dublin. The excitement is palpable, with Brophy expressing his anticipation: "We've seen fandom for the game grow, and people have come to it from many different directions."

Ticket prices vary widely, ranging from approximately $100 to $600. For those looking for a more comprehensive experience, the team's website offers all-inclusive packages starting at $1,300 per person.

The enthusiasm among local Irish fans mirrors that of a sold-out concert tour. Brophy likened the buzz to that surrounding major music events, stating, "The only comparable excitement that I would have seen is when Taylor Swift was coming here."

With less than 100 days until kickoff, Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell is preparing for the unique challenge ahead. "When you think about opportunities to play in unique atmospheres, what better way to do that?" he remarked.

However, fans are cautioned about potential scams as fraudulent ticket sites emerge. The advice is clear: if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Kicking off at 8:30 a.m. CST (2:30 p.m. IST), this game will be followed by the Vikings' return to London just days later to face the Cleveland Browns at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Historically, Minnesota has performed well internationally, boasting a 4-0 record in regular season games in London.

With anticipation building and preparations underway, the Vikings' journey to Ireland promises to be an unforgettable experience for fans and players alike.