Jaguars to play two London home games in 2020

Jacksonville, FL — The Jacksonville Jaguars have announced they will add a second home game in London in 2020, over consecutive Sundays.  It makes the Jaguars the first NFL team in history to play two home games outside of the United States in the same regular season.

The team did not announce which opponents will be played in Wembley Stadium, but did say it will not be the Pittsburgh Steelers or Chicago Bears. Both games will be played at TIAA Bank Field in Jacksonville.

“Our work to create new sources of revenue to help us improve our long-term outlook and commitment to operating a thriving franchise in Jacksonville will continue and never end,” said Jaguars Team President Mark Lamping. “For the past seven seasons, our London strategy has been a game-changer. No single approach, including London, will answer the many challenges that are common with any market the size of Jacksonville. However, playing two games in London at Wembley Stadium, where we have outstanding relationships, at least next season and perhaps in future years during construction, will help us bridge the gap between now and when we expect the Lot J development to open. Jacksonville’s potential is unlimited, and I am confident we can realize it, with the Jaguars serving as the catalyst.”

The Jaguars have played one home game in London annually since 2013.  Owner Shad Khan said this move isn’t about next season, but the next 10 years and beyond.

“There is no better time than now to capitalize on the opportunity to play two home games in London, where we will continue to develop our loyal and growing fan base there and throughout the UK”, Khan said.

As part of the announcement, 2020 Jaguars season ticket members will receive a 50% discount on preseason games and favorable variable pricing on the six regular season games that will be played in Jacksonville.

The team also updated plans for the development of Lot J.  Phase one of the proposed $500 million project is going to feature a 200-room hotel, residential buildings offering more than 400 units, as well as additional parking. The project still needs final approval by the City of Jacksonville.

“I believe in what’s possible for Jacksonville and am going to do whatever it takes to help the Jaguars and the City of Jacksonville to reach its full potential. What we plan for the 2020 season and maybe a bit longer is all about believing in what Jacksonville can ultimately become, all while continuing to further grow and develop partnerships and a fan following in London and throughout the UK that have turned out to be pretty remarkable”, said Khan.

In August 2019, WOKV reported the City had reached a deal for the $450 million development of Lot J at TIAA Bank Field.

Terms of the deal included $233.3 million in City incentives. At the time of the announcement, Mayor Lenny Curry said he hoped shovels could be in the ground in January.