Panthers to play overseas for first time in franchise history during 2019 season

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Carolina Panthers announced Monday that the team will play overseas for the first time in franchise history.

The team will be taking on National Football Conference South rival Tampa Bay in London, England.

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“I’ve had the chance to play and coach in London before and those were unbelievable experiences,” said head coach Ron Rivera, who played in London with the Bears in the 1986 preseason and coached in London with the Chargers in the 2008 regular season. “The fans are outstanding and they have such fervor for the game. It’s a great opportunity for our franchise and for our players and coaches to get international exposure.”

2019 international games:

Chicago Bears vs. Oakland Raiders

Cincinnati Bengals vs. Los Angeles Rams

Houston Texans vs. Jacksonville Jaguars

Carolina Panthers vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Kansas City Chiefs vs. Los Angeles Chargers

Prior to 2019, Carolina, Green Bay and Houston were the only franchises that had not played in London since the National Football League started the contest in 2007.

“It’s amazing the Panthers are going to play in London,” said defensive lineman Efe Obada, who grew up in the city. “One of my goals, beyond making the roster, has been to play in London, be in front of the English fans and get a sack. It would be coming full circle to be on that field. Now I have to make the team again. It’s added motivation.”

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2019's matchups will bring the total number of NFL teams that have played in the United Kingdom to 31.

The contest is a home game for the Buccaneers, so the Panthers will play all eight regular season home games at Bank of America Stadium.

The Panthers will also play road games at Arizona, San Francisco, Green Bay, Indianapolis, Houston, Atlanta and New Orleans.

The international game's date and venue have not yet been released.

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