The Pittsburgh Steelers fanbase, also known as the Steelers Nation, has made its presence known around the globe. It only takes a quick Google search of the Terrible Towel and you will see its presence across multiple landmarks. As the National Football League continues its global expansion, it only makes sense the Steelers Nation will continue to grow as well. Adam Schefter reported on Sunday morning the NFL will continue to expand its international matchups as the Minnesota Vikings and New York Jets battle Sunday morning. It is believed the Steelers are a prime candidate to host a first ever regular season game in Dublin, Ireland.
Pittsburgh Steelers owner Dan Rooney, left, talks with NFL commissioner Roger Goodell before the NFL football Super Bowl XLV game between the Green Bay Packers and the Pittsburgh Steelers Sunday, Feb. 6, 2011, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)
This would make the most sense as not only did Art Rooney II express hopes to play there, they were awarded marketing rights to the region. The roots to Ireland only get deeper. To make it sweeter, the late Dan Rooney served as an ambassador to Ireland from 2009-2012. Not only did Rooney serve in this position, he was a co-founder of The Ireland Funds organization in 1976.
The last regular season game the Steelers played internationally was in London in 2013 in which they lost to the Vikings. It would be an exciting trip across the pond for the Steelers and Steelers Nation to play in Dublin, Ireland. It is also a great way to honor the legacy and the work of Dan Rooney to play as the host of this first ever regular season game there.