The first regular season NFL game in Ireland last year generated an estimated €104.5m for the Irish economy, according to Fáilte Ireland.
The game, which featured the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Minnesota Vikings, took place on 28 September in Croke Park, and attracted a matchday attendance of 74,512.
It also captured global attention and drew a US TV audience of 9.2 million live unique viewers.
The research, which was undertaken by BDO for the the National Tourism Development Authority of Ireland, said it delivered a 10.5:1 return on public investment.
It found that of the €104.5 million generated from Ireland's hosting of the NFL game €76.8 million was direct spend driven by accommodation, food and beverage, retail and transport expenditure, along with event operational costs and associated activities.
It said the overall figure also includes indirect and induced impact of €27.7 million arising from the wider multiplier effect across the economy.
The analysis showed that every €1 of public funding generated €2.24 in tax receipts for the Exchequer, demonstrating a strong and measurable fiscal return alongside the wider economic impact.
Analysis of ticket holders shows that approximately 37% travelled from the United States, 33% were from Ireland, and 30% came from other international markets.
Following the economic impact report the government and NFL have announced a joint match funding initiative to support flag football in Ireland, the the non-contact version of American football.
The Government will provide funding via Sport Ireland of up to €200,000 per annum over the next 3 years, with a particular focus on supporting the capacity growth of American Football Ireland, to match NFL investment in growing the game.
The NFL delivered flag starter kits to more than 900 post-primary schools on the island of Ireland prior to the September 2025 game and NFL Flag is now active in 100 schools across the island of Ireland.
The Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke said the benefit of the event was not just felt in the capital, as visitors spent time right across the country, supporting local businesses and communities in every region.
"The game also showcased Ireland to a truly global audience, with 9.2 million viewers in the United States alone tuning in and seeing Ireland at its best," he said.
Hosting the first NFL regular season game in Ireland was a significant milestone for the league, according to NFL U.K. & Ireland General Manager, Henry Hodgson.
"The atmosphere in Croke Park and across the city reflected the passion of our fans and the strength of the partnerships the NFL has developed in Ireland," said Mr Hodgson.
"The combined economic impact and legacy investment underline the broader value of hosting the 2025 NFL Dublin Game, delivering immediate financial returns while supporting long-term sports development across Ireland," he added.
