State Department, NFL launch new sports diplomacy partnership agreement
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The United States Department of State and the NFL announced Thursday that they have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) launching a public-private partnership to advance the Department’s sports diplomacy initiatives.
The NFL and the U.S. State Department will collaborate on major sporting events such as international NFL games, the Super Bowl and the debut of flag football at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.
They confirmed their commitment to promoting football internationally as a way to enhance cultural exchange, youth participation and public diplomacy efforts. The memorandum of understanding was signed between Under Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy Sarah Rogers and NFL executives at a signing ceremony at the State Department in Washington, DC.
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An NFL football with a “250” logo commemorating the 250th anniversary of the NFL game between the New Orleans Saints and Atlanta Falcons at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on January 4, 2026. (Icon Sportswire via Rich von Biberstein/Getty Images)
“As President Trump has said, football reflects our timeless American values of family, freedom, unity and hard work. The State Department is proud to partner with the National Football League to highlight America’s greatness through sports diplomacy, bringing the uniquely American game of football to new audiences, new markets and new international fans,” Rogers said in a statement. he said.
“Football has the power to bring people together across borders and backgrounds,” Jeff Miller, NFL vice president of public relations and policy, said in a statement. “This partnership with the State Department will be invaluable as we work to grow our game globally.”
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NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell walks the field before the NFC Divisional Round game between the Seattle Seahawks and the San Francisco 49ers at Lumen Field on January 17, 2026 in Seattle, Washington. (Steven Bisig/Imagn Images)
The two will collaborate around international games to meet with U.S. and foreign leaders to promote sports diplomacy. The NFL will continue to host events, clinics and training sessions abroad.
The partnership highlights cultural values in football such as teamwork, perseverance, discipline and sportsmanship. The State Department and the NFL are working to host 150 events in more than 65 countries on five continents.
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NFL shield logo at midfield during the 2024 NFL Munich Game at Allianz Arena. (Kirby Lee/Imagn Images)
The department’s sports diplomacy programs through the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) will empower current and former NFL players and coaches as cultural ambassadors. They will also increase support for public diplomacy programs at U.S. embassies and consulates for events such as Super Bowl viewing parties and flag football clinics for young international athletes.
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