Minnesota Vikings players Alexander Mattison and Mekhi Blackmon visited the UK to experience two of the most prestigious events in the British sporting calendar, the Wimbledon Championship and The Formula One Aramco British Grand Prix.
Prior to the British Grand Prix, the pair headed to the Williams Racing fan zone in central London, where they met fans and learned about the history behind one of the sport’s most iconic teams.
This was followed by a trip to Silverstone for the Grand Prix, where the pair presented fellow American and F1 rookie driver Logan Sargent with his own Vikings jersey ahead of the race.
Next, it was off to Wimbledon to soak up the action courtside at the world’s oldest tennis tournament. The first time either of the players have attended a professional tennis tournament, their day started fittingly with a walk along the famous purple carpet before an afternoon soaking up the action on Centre Court where they were able to talk with players and fans alike.
For Alexander Mattison, his trip to the UK brings fond memories of his visit to London last year when his touchdown helped the Vikings secure a 28-25 win against the Saints. Mattison commented, “To be able to play and score in front of our fans here in the UK last year was an incredibly special moment.
As a team, we felt the immense passion our UK fans have for the team and American football. To come back this summer to experience the city, some incredible sporting action and meet so many of our fans in person has been truly humbling.”
Vikings rookie Mekhi Blackmon added: “I was so excited to come over to the UK this summer and to see first-hand the ‘unique’ relationship the Vikings have with the UK.
To feel so welcomed and to be able to learn more about the UK sporting culture has been amazing – we have met fans everywhere we have been.
“You can see there is an incredible love for the sport in the UK. I am super excited to be able to come back one day to step out onto the field myself.”
The trip showcased the Vikings commitment to the UK fanbase, where they have marketing rights through the NFL’s Global Markets Program. The Global Markets Program, which launched in January 2022, was previously referred to as the International Home Marketing Areas program.
The program grants NFL clubs access to international markets for marketing, fan engagement and commercialization activations as part of an important, long-term strategic effort to enable clubs to build their brands globally while driving NFL fan growth beyond the US. Currently, the Minnesota Vikings hold marketing rights in both the United Kingdom and Canada.
Although the Minnesota Vikings will not be returning to play in London this October, the team will remain active in the UK throughout the season. To keep updated on everything, you can follow them on Instagram and Twitter.