The Pittsburgh Steelers are considered Ireland's NFL team because of the deep historical and cultural connections between the Rooney family, owners of the Steelers, and Ireland. The Rooney family's ancestors emigrated from Ireland during the Great Famine in the 1840s, and the family has maintained close ties with their Irish heritage over the decades. This deep bond has translated into the NFL granting the Steelers marketing rights on the island of Ireland, allowing them to sign deals, hold fan events, and build a fanbase there as part of the league's international growth efforts. The Steelers have even incorporated Irish Gaelic on their practice jerseys and engaged in community events in Ireland to honor the connection. This association was highlighted during the first regular-season NFL game held in Dublin at Croke Park, a historic Gaelic athletic venue, which has strong ties to the Gaelic Athletic Association—an organization the Steelers have partnered with to grow their presence in Ireland. The late Dan Rooney, former Steelers executive and U.S. ambassador to Ireland, played a key role in fostering this link, helping the team become a kind of "home" team for Irish NFL fans. The Steelers' strong presence in Ireland is unique among NFL teams and reflects both family heritage and strategic efforts to expand the NFL's footprint internationally.