Sophia
DUBLIN, Ireland — The Pittsburgh Steelers have officially touched down in the Emerald Isle, transforming temporarily into the “Dublin Steelers” for their historic regular-season clash against the Minnesota Vikings. While excitement builds for Sunday’s game, the Rooney family, the venerable owners of the franchise, have hinted that this may be just the beginning of a much deeper relationship between the Steelers and Ireland.
The Steelers, who also participated in the first NFL preseason game in Ireland back in 1997, are now making history again as one of the two inaugural teams to play a regular season game on Irish soil. This momentous occasion has been met with overwhelming enthusiasm, and according to team president Art Rooney II and his son, Vice President of Business and Strategy Dan Rooney III, the organization and the NFL have ambitious plans for the future of American football in Ireland.
Unprecedented Demand Signals Future Growth
Speaking to reporters upon their arrival, Art Rooney II underscored the incredible public response as a key indicator of future potential. “I think there will be more (NFL) games in Dublin, for sure,” he stated confidently. “The ticket demand has been unbelievable. I think we convinced the league this is a good idea, based on that. So, yeah, I think there will be more games in Dublin. Hopefully, we’ll be one of them.”
The sentiment was echoed by Dan Rooney III, who has been instrumental in solidifying the Steelers’ presence in Ireland. In 2023, he played a pivotal role in securing the NFL’s Global Market Program partnership for Ireland, a strategic move that has now culminated in this premier contest.
When asked if this game would be a deciding factor for the NFL to continue hosting international games in Ireland, Dan deferred to the league but expressed his strong belief in a sustained presence. “It’s a league decision,” he remarked. “I know the College Football Classic is a massive success in Dublin every year, and I believe Sunday will be a large success for the league. So, I’d be surprised if we didn’t come back.”
A Deep-Rooted Connection: The Rooney Family’s Irish Heritage
For the Rooney family, this venture is more than just a business opportunity; it’s a homecoming. Their ancestors emigrated from Ireland to the United States in the 1840s, a historical tie that adds a deeply personal layer to the Steelers’ commitment to the nation.
Dan Rooney III shared this sentiment with a laugh, emphasizing the enduring connection. “The Rooney family emigrated from the Island back in the 1840s and we’ve been coming here ever since,” he said. “The Steelers aren’t going anywhere after this game and I think it’s just a launching pad to a bright future.”
The team’s practice sessions at Carton House have already begun, providing a glimpse of the Steelers’ dedication to making this a successful and memorable international event.
This inaugural regular season game is poised to be a landmark event, not only for the Steelers and Vikings but for the NFL’s broader international strategy. With the Rooney family’s deep roots and the overwhelming enthusiasm from the Irish public, it appears the Steelers’ journey to Ireland is indeed just beginning.
For more updates on the Pittsburgh Steelers and their international endeavors, be sure to bookmark Steelers On SI.
