The San Francisco 49ers have been revealed as the Jacksonville Jaguars’s opponents in the NFL’s International Series at Wembley next year.
The Jaguars had already been confirmed as the ‘home’ team for the annual London fixture in each year between 2013 and 2016 and the club’s owner, Shad Khan, speaking at the Leaders in Sport conference in London on Thursday, confirmed the 49ers as their opening opponents.
“Everyone associated with the Jacksonville Jaguars is very much looking forward to our four home games in London through 2016, and we’re particularly thrilled and honoured that our first opponent will be the San Francisco 49ers,” Khan said.
“This is a unique and important opportunity for the Jaguars franchise, as well as for our fans and community.
“To share this stage in our first year at Wembley with a rising power like the 49ers will bring additional attention and respect to what we’re trying to achieve as a franchise.
“We can’t wait to see our global vision for the Jaguars become reality next season.”
The NFL, who started the International Series in 2007, are keen to see if there is a market for a Europe-based franchise and Jacksonville’s run of home games at Wembley has been seen as the first step in that direction.
Five-time Super Bowl winners San Francisco have already played in the International Series, defeating the Denver Broncos in 2010.
“The 49ers are excited and privileged to once again serve as ambassadors for the NFL and the game of football internationally,” said 49ers chief executive officer Jed York.
“Our 2010 experience in London was tremendous. The atmosphere at Wembley Stadium on game day was electric.
“The ability for us to share 49ers football with our faithful fans internationally is a treat for everyone in our organisation.”
Last year’s beaten Super Bowl finalists, the New England Patriots, will face the St Louis Rams in this year’s Wembley fixture on October 28.
Jaguars to host 49ers in London
