The Bears and the National Football League have announced that the application process has opened for the second annual International Fan of the Year contest.
The International Fan of the Year contest celebrates extraordinary fans globally who inspire others with their passion for the game and serve as a consistent, steadfast force across their communities through fandom and dedication.
Following the introduction of last season's contest, the NFL is expanding the participant pool to nine global markets for 2024, giving Bears fans around the world the opportunity to show off their dedication.
The expansion of nine international markets for the 2024 season includes the addition of Brazil, Ireland and Spain, which proudly resides as an International Home Market Area for the Bears.
Each of the honorees representing all 32 NFL clubs will be recognized on stage at the 2025 NFL Draft in Green Bay. Each club's winner will be present on stage at the Draft, while the Ultimate NFL International Fan of the Year – the most impactful international fan across all 32 teams – will receive their award and name recognition at the event.
Last year, the Bears recognized James Gowers as the team's first International Fan of the Year. Gowers announced the selection of punter Tory Taylor in the fourth round of the draft in Detroit.
Applications for fans to nominate themselves or others to represent the Bears as a 2024 NFL International Fan of the Year are now available at NFL.com/FanOfTheYear. The submission window is open through Nov. 15, 2024. The 32 international nominees will be announced on Feb. 24, 2025.
