Fans in Mexico have been passionate about the Steelers since the Super Bowl years, and when the Steelers played a preseason game in Mexico City in 2001, the outpouring of love and support from the fans created a long-standing commitment to continue to bring Steelers football to the fan base in various ways.
The team hosted an annual football camp in Mexico prior to the pandemic, with current and former players on hand to teach skills to fans of all ages, including holding youth clinics. In recent years groups of fans have travel from Mexico to Heinz Field for a home game, and the team hosts a welcome party for all of them to show their appreciation.
The Steelers also provide online content for their Spanish-speaking fans, with original content on the website, mobile app and Spanish social media accounts.
These are all commitments the team plans to continue and to grow, especially given the fact the team was one of nine NFL clubs granted expanded rights in Mexico as part of the League’s International Home Marketing Areas (IHMA) program in December.
“We look forward to having more direct contact with our fans in Mexico, which will include more focus on events, social engagement, and a potential regular-season game,” said Steelers President Art Rooney II in a statement in December. “Over the years we have seen support grow from our Mexican fans both in Mexico and at games at Heinz Field and on the road, and this initiative will allow us to develop even greater relationships in Mexico. This is a really exciting time for our Spanish speaking fans worldwide, especially those in Mexico.”