The Patriots’ Gillette Stadium served as a host site for the 2026 FIFA World Cup games. Scotland’s Tartan Army fans reportedly “brought spirit” to the point that it caught Kraft’s attention, prompting the Patriots’ owner to tell NFL commissioner Roger Goodell that he would like his team to play a game in Scotland someday. Reiss also notes that the “economic stimulus from record beer sales at some local bars probably made an impression on Kraft.” Reiss’ sources say that this isn’t yet an “active” situation, and instead falls in the “conversation” phase between league and owner, at this time. The NFL intends to continue its international expansion, and NFL teams that seek out international fan bases will only hurry that process along.
