The NFL recently opened a Pittsburgh Steelers-themed Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) in Mexico, an attempt to capitalize on one of the largest fan bases outside the United States.
I don’t recommend drinking the water there.
The unique partnership is part of the NFL’s broader strategy under the Global Markets Program, aimed at enhancing brand awareness and fostering global fan engagement.
Located in Coyoacán, approximately 30 miles south of Mexico City, this new KFC isn’t just another fast-food joint; it’s a shrine for Steelers fans down south. Way down south.
The restaurant dons the iconic black and gold of the Steelers, with walls lined with memorabilia, including jerseys and helmets, transforming the dining experience into a celebration of Pittsburgh’s football heritage.
They also have televisions playing Steelers games, of course.
@lucionarrador Restaurante de los Steelers en la CDMX 🟡⚫️ #Steelers #steelersnation #herewego #nfl #nflfootball #CDMX #pittsburgh @KFC_MX @Steelers En Español ♬ sonido original – Lucio Trucíos
Is Mexico Ready For A Pittsburgh Steelers KFC?
Why the Pittsburgh Steelers? Why KFC? In Mexico, no less.
The Steelers have long enjoyed a passionate following in Mexico, evidenced by the half a million Mexican fans on social media platforms like Facebook.
This themed restaurant not only serves KFC’s world-famous fried chicken but also serves up nostalgia for Steelers fans living far from Pittsburgh or those who have never stepped foot in Pennsylvania.
The Steelers-themed KFC is part of a larger NFL initiative, not an isolated effort. Similar themed restaurants have been opened for the San Francisco 49ers and Kansas City Chiefs.
The league is all in on cultivating fan bases with our neighbors to the South.
RELATED: The NFL’s Epic Journey: From Humble Gridirons To Global Phenomenon
Courting Mexico
For fans, this is more than just a place to eat; it’s a destination where they can connect with their team in an environment that feels like home. For the NFL, these themed eateries are a clever play in marketing, blending fan loyalty with the universal love for fast food.
Especially the Colonel’s secret recipe.
It’s a way to keep the Steelers’ spirit alive in Mexico and potentially draw more fans into the NFL’s fold through this cultural fusion.
The league has hosted several games in Mexico City in recent years. The inaugural NFL regular-season game was held on October 2, 2005, at Estadio Azteca.
The Arizona Cardinals defeated the San Francisco 49ers 31-14 in front of 103,467 fans, setting a record for regular-season game attendance at the time.
Beyond the games, the NFL has engaged with the Mexican community through fan festivals, youth football programs, and partnerships with local businesses, enhancing the cultural exchange between American football and Mexican sports culture.
More about:NFL News