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Robert Kraft Proposes⁢ 18-Game NFL season ‍and Global expansion

New England Patriots owner ⁤Robert⁤ Kraft is advocating for critically important changes to the NFL structure, including an expanded⁣ regular season and a⁤ stronger international presence. These proposals aim to boost⁤ revenue, maintain labor peace, and further solidify the NFL’s position as a global entertainment powerhouse.

The Proposal: An 18-Game Regular Season

Kraft recently discussed his vision for the league’s future in an interview on “Zolak & Bertrand” on 98.5 The Sports Hub [Source: Boston.com]. ⁤ The core of his plan involves increasing the regular season from ⁢17⁤ to 18 games, while reducing the⁣ number of preseason games from three to⁢ two. This adjustment is intended to provide more ⁢meaningful games for fans and ⁤increase overall league revenue.

Expanding the NFL’s International Footprint

Alongside the expanded season, Kraft proposes a mandate for each NFL team to play at least one regular ⁣season game internationally each year. This initiative builds upon the NFL’s existing international⁢ series, which‍ has seen games ⁣played in countries like Brazil, Ireland,⁣ England, Germany, and Spain. The league is planning to increase the number of⁢ international games to nine in 2026, wiht a potential return to Mexico City following renovations to⁢ the Azteca Stadium [Source: NFL.com].

Why International Expansion?

The⁤ push for international games ⁤is driven by several ⁤factors. Firstly, it taps into a growing global⁣ fanbase for American football. Secondly, it ⁣generates significant revenue‍ through ticket sales, sponsorships,⁣ and broadcasting rights. it aligns‍ with the NFL’s broader strategy to become a truly global sport.

Financial ‍Implications and Labor negotiations

Kraft emphasized that increasing⁢ the salary cap and maintaining labor peace are key motivations behind these proposals. He‍ noted the NFL’s dominance in television ratings – with 93 of‍ the 100 most-watched programs