NFL in Toronto

NFL in Toronto refers to the history and ongoing discussions related to the potential establishment of a National Football League (NFL) franchise in Toronto, the largest city in Canada. This topic encompasses efforts by various business groups to bring an NFL team to Toronto, either through relocation or expansion, and includes the city's history of hosting NFL games and its potential as a future home for a franchise.

History

Toronto has a long-standing connection with American football, which includes hosting NFL preseason games as early as the 1950s. The city's significant market size and its sports infrastructure make it a perennial candidate for NFL expansion. However, several factors, including the presence of the Canadian Football League (CFL) and its Toronto-based team, the Toronto Argonauts, complicate the potential for an NFL team in the city.

Buffalo Bills Toronto Series

One of the most notable efforts to bring the NFL to Toronto was the Buffalo Bills Toronto Series, which began in 2008 and continued until 2013. This series consisted of the Buffalo Bills playing a series of regular-season and preseason games at Toronto's Rogers Centre. Despite initial enthusiasm, the series faced challenges such as lower-than-expected attendance and fan engagement, leading to its eventual discontinuation.

Challenges

The primary challenges to bringing an NFL team to Toronto include the CFL's market presence and the potential market saturation with other major sports teams like the Toronto Maple Leafs (NHL), Toronto Raptors (NBA), and Toronto Blue Jays (MLB). Additionally, logistical issues such as stadium suitability and the financial implications of the NFL's franchise fees and operational costs pose significant hurdles.

Potential

Despite these challenges, Toronto remains a viable candidate for NFL expansion due to its large market, corporate presence, and sports culture. Discussions about NFL expansion often include Toronto as a potential location, reflecting the city's strong economic fundamentals and its status as a major North American sports hub.

See also

• Sports in Toronto
• History of the National Football League
• Canadian Football League