NFL Debuts in Berlin with The Kid LAROI Halftime Show

BERLIN, Germany — American football arrives in Berlin for the first time today with a matchup between the Indianapolis Colts and the Atlanta Falcons. The game kicks off at 3:30 p.m. local time, and excitement is high as the stadium prepares for around 72,000 fans.

The Colts enter the game with an impressive record of seven wins in nine games, making them strong contenders for the playoffs. Former Colts player Björn Werner remarked, “Before the season, I would have said: never Super Bowl. But right now, everything is clicking. I see the chances very good for them to reach the semifinals and then anything can happen.”

In addition to the game, the halftime show features Grammy-nominated singer The Kid LAROI. The Australian artist, known for hits like “Stay” with Justin Bieber, expressed his excitement for the performance, stating, “I am thrilled to perform at the first NFL regular season game in Berlin, and I know the energy in the stadium will be epic.”

NFL Germany’s General Manager, Alexander Steinforth, also shared his enthusiasm, saying, “We are very excited to present The Kid LAROI, a globally known and celebrated artist for our halftime show. His popularity and energy fit perfectly with the atmosphere of the 2025 NFL Berlin Game.”

Before the kickoff, fans can enjoy performances from local artists. The Berliner a cappella group, German Gents, will sing the German national anthem, and U.S. singer Norma Jean Martine will perform the American anthem.

Berlin has invested heavily in hosting the NFL game, with the government providing 12.5 million euros for event-related expenses and stadium renovations, while the NFL contributes 48 million euros. The city expects significant economic benefits from the game, potentially reaching into the hundreds of millions.

On the non-game side, fans can experience the “NFL-Experience” at the Brandenburg Gate, which features a Flag Football field. RTL is hosting a large pre-game party at the Uber Eats Music Hall, expected to draw around 2,000 participants.

With this inaugural game in Berlin, the NFL aims to grow its base of fans in Europe, echoing its previous efforts in Frankfurt and Munich. The excitement around today’s matchup is palpable as football fans await the opening kick.