American football has been growing in popularity in Germany, and many fans are eager to attend an NFL game when teams come to play in Frankfurt. Buying tickets to an NFL game in Frankfurt can be confusing, especially for first-time attendees. This guide will walk through the entire process step-by-step, from finding out when and where games are happening to getting your tickets in hand.
When and Where are NFL Games Played in Frankfurt?
The NFL has been hosting regular season games in Frankfurt since 2007. Typically there is one game played per season at the Waldstadion football stadium, home stadium of Eintracht Frankfurt. The stadium can hold up to 51,500 spectators.
Games are usually scheduled for early in the NFL season, either late September or sometime in October. The specific date is announced 6-12 months in advance once the full NFL schedule is released. The two teams playing are chosen months ahead of time as well.
In the past, Frankfurt has hosted matches between teams like the New England Patriots and Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2009), Chicago Bears and Buccaneers (2011), and Kansas City Chiefs and Detroit Lions (2015). Big name teams often play abroad to drum up interest and expand the popularity of the sport.
Finding Out Game Details
Once the date, time, and team details are formally announced, there are a few places to find this key information:
- The NFL’s international series website – This will have dates and teams for all games played abroad.
- Individual team websites – Official team sites will promote the international game on their schedule.
- Ticket retailer websites – They will advertise the on-sale date for tickets.
- Sports news sites – Outlets like ESPN and CBS Sports will report game announcements.
Putting an alert for “NFL Frankfurt” on Google or signing up for newsletters from the NFL or ticket retailer can also help you get details right when they are released.
Purchasing Tickets
Once the game is formally announced, there are a few options for purchasing tickets. Acting quickly is important, as the 50,000 seat stadium sells out rapidly.
Official Ticket Retailers
The NFL partners with large ticket retailers like Ticketmaster to sell the majority of tickets. Sales will likely start 4-6 months prior to the game itself. Prices can range anywhere from €50 for upper deck seats to over €200 for lower level midfield seats.
Here are some tips for buying via official partners:
- Sign up for alerts on the retailer website for presale password access
- Get online right when tickets go on sale for best choice
- Consider joining fan clubs of the teams playing for presale opportunities
- Buying with a group? Try to get tickets together or all in the same section
Secondary Market Sites
If official tickets sell out quickly, you can turn to secondary sites like StubHub. Resellers and season ticket holders list extra tickets at sometimes marked up prices. The benefit is expanded inventory and more choice.
Some tips for secondary sites:
- Sort by price to find best deals, often cheaper closer to event
- Read the listing closely for details like exact seat location
- StubHub has a FanProtect guarantee for valid tickets
- Consider premium seating options you may not find elsewhere
Game Day Sales
Some limited tickets may be sold on game day at the stadium box office. This is very risky though, as supply is low and you could end up empty-handed.
Benefits include potential for last minute deals on unused tickets. Downsides are no guarantees on seats together or availability.
Extra Considerations
Travel and Accommodations
As Frankfurt is a major city and transportation hub, getting to the game is fairly straightforward. However, hotels and flights will be very expensive and crowded that weekend. Book accommodations 6 months in advance if possible.
The stadium is accessible by public transport via tram and S-bahn rail lines. Driving and parking is another option. Leave ample time as traffic will be quite congested.
Tailgating
Tailgating in the parking lots with food and drinks is a popular NFL tradition. However, open air drinking is not permitted in Germany around the stadium area. There are designated fan zones around the city instead.
Seating Sections
The lower bowl sideline seats are the most coveted locations and tend to sell out first. Upper deck corners have the cheapest tickets. There are also standing room only areas for hardcore fans.
Season Tickets
As only one NFL game is played per season in Frankfurt, there are no season tickets available. Fans must purchase tickets individually each year.
Conclusion
Attending an NFL game in Frankfurt is an unforgettable experience for any football fan. By planning ahead, acting quickly when tickets go on sale, and using this guide, you should have no trouble getting seats to this popular once a year event.
The energy and pageantry of an NFL game coupled with the chants and cheers of the passionate German fans will create memories that will last a lifetime. Just be ready to join in yelling “Defense!” and “Go Teams Go!” in your best German accent as you witness gridiron action like never before.
