It’s a thrilling kickoff to the college football season, and ESPN is taking it international! This Saturday at noon ET, the network will air its first game of the season live from Aviva Stadium in Dublin, Ireland. The Aer Lingus College Football Classic will feature an exhilarating match-up between No. 10 Florida State and Georgia Tech. Commentators Joe Tessitore, Jesse Palmer, and Katie George are set to bring the electrifying action straight to your screens.

But that’s not all—history is being made! For the first time in its 37-year frame, College GameDay Built By The Home Depot is broadcasting from an international location. Live from College Green outside Trinity College in Dublin, fans worldwide can catch the pregame excitement in an unprecedented setting.

This spectacular event underscores ESPN’s global commitment to college sports and The Walt Disney Company’s powerful advertising reach. Rita Ferro, President of Global Advertising at Disney, expressed their enthusiasm: “Disney Advertising is eager to help our advertisers create impactful connections with sports fans globally, celebrating the sport’s dynamic reach and universal appeal.”

Securing global rights to collegiate events has always been high on ESPN’s priority list. Nick Dawson, Senior VP of Programming & Acquisitions, highlighted the significance of capturing these moments: “We aim to showcase championship-level performances worldwide via CFP and NCAA partnerships.” This strategic approach amplifies the appeal of college sports beyond American borders.

From a long-term perspective, ESPN’s robust package, including the College Football Playoff and 40 NCAA championship events over eight years, ensures fans a steady stream of top-tier sports entertainment. With networks like ESPNU, SEC Network, and ACC Network, not to mention ESPN+, college sports enthusiasts are spoilt for choice.

Advertisers, too, are seizing the opportunity. As sports fans engage passionately with live events, brands like Home Depot, Allstate, and PepsiCo are aligning with ESPN’s compelling storytelling. According to Dawson, “Sports have the power to unite, inspire, and engage audiences across the world. These moments resonate deeply with fans, and we’re inviting brands to be part of the story.”

What are your thoughts on this international expansion of college football coverage? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to interact and share this story with fellow fans!

Source: The Walt Disney Company