New England Patriots

The New England Patriots are a professional American football team competing in the National Football League. Owned by billionaire Robert Kraft, the franchise plays its home games at Gillette Stadium.

Coverage of the team extends beyond the gridiron to corporate and entertainment venue politics. Franchise owner Robert Kraft drew public attention after rapper Macklemore alleged Kraft threatened a venue blackout at Gillette Stadium, forcing Ed Sheeran's management to drop Macklemore from a stadium tour. Kraft also made headlines by pledging $2 million toward Palestinian relief efforts, clarifying the donation was planned prior to public calls from Macklemore.

On the gridiron, the Patriots feature prominently in high-profile league events and international broadcasts. The team opened its season on the road visiting the Seattle Seahawks in Seattle and was booked for an international matchup against the Detroit Lions in Munich, Germany, bringing stadium entertainment to global audiences.