The NFL’s Global Ambition: 2026 International Schedule Revealed
The NFL is officially taking its brand to unprecedented heights. In a move that solidifies its commitment to global expansion, the league has unveiled a record-breaking international schedule for the 2026 season. This “world tour” will feature nine regular-season games played across four continents and seven different countries, utilizing eight iconic sporting venues.
This expansive slate represents the most ambitious international undertaking in the league’s history. From the historic grounds of London to the sun-drenched stadiums of Brazil and the newly minted frontiers in Australia, the 2026 season is designed to bring the game closer to a rapidly growing global fanbase.
A Record-Breaking World Tour
The scale of the 2026 schedule underscores a strategic shift in how the NFL views its market reach. According to NFL executive vice president of club business, major events and international Peter O’Reilly, the season will feature the league’s “most expansive and ambitious international slate yet.” O’Reilly noted that the schedule underlines the league’s “global growth vision” by bringing star athletes and franchises to iconic venues worldwide.
The expansion includes several historic milestones, such as the NFL’s first-ever games in Australia and France, alongside a continued presence in established markets like the United Kingdom, Germany, Mexico, and Spain.
Full 2026 NFL International Schedule
For fans planning to travel or tune in via international broadcasts, here is the complete breakdown of the 2026 international matchups, dates, and locations:
| Week | Date | Matchup | Location | TV/Streaming |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Week 1 | Thursday, Sept. 10 | San Francisco 49ers vs. Los Angeles Rams | Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne, Australia | Netflix |
| Week 3 | Sunday, Sept. 27 | Dallas Cowboys vs. Baltimore Ravens | Maracanã Stadium, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil | CBS/Paramount+ |
| Week 4 | Sunday, Oct. 4 | Washington Commanders vs. Indianapolis Colts | Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, London, England | NFL Network/NFL+ |
| Week 5 | Sunday, Oct. 11 | Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Philadelphia Eagles | Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, London, England | NFL Network/NFL+ |
| Week 6 | Sunday, Oct. 18 | Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Houston Texans | Wembley Stadium, London, England | NFL Network/NFL+ |
| Week 7 | Sunday, Oct. 25 | New Orleans Saints vs. Pittsburgh Steelers | Stade de France, Paris, France | NFL Network/NFL+ |
| Week 9 | Sunday, Nov. 8 | Atlanta Falcons vs. Cincinnati Bengals | Bernabéu Stadium, Madrid, Spain | NFL Network/NFL+ |
| Week 10 | Sunday, Nov. 15 | Detroit Lions vs. New England Patriots | Allianz Arena, Munich, Germany | FOX/FOX One |
Key Highlights and New Frontiers
The Expansion into Australia and Brazil
The 2026 season kicks off with a historic moment in the Southern Hemisphere. On Thursday, Sept. 10, the San Francisco 49ers will face the Los Angeles Rams at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, marking the NFL’s inaugural games in Australia. Shortly after, the league moves to South America, with the Baltimore Ravens taking on the Dallas Cowboys at the iconic Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro on Sept. 27. This will be the first time the NFL has played in Rio, following two previous games held in São Paulo.
A European Powerhouse
Europe remains a cornerstone of the NFL’s international strategy. London will host three consecutive games, including matchups at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and Wembley Stadium. The league is also expanding its European footprint with games in Paris at the Stade de France, Munich at the Allianz Arena, and a Week 9 showdown in Madrid at the Bernabéu Stadium featuring the Atlanta Falcons and Cincinnati Bengals.
Key Takeaways
- Record Scale: Nine international games across four continents and seven countries.
- New Markets: First-ever regular-season games in Australia, and France.
- London Dominance: Three games scheduled in the U.K., spanning two different stadiums.
- Global Streaming: Major matchups will be available via diverse platforms including Netflix, CBS, and NFL+.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many countries will host NFL games in 2026?
The NFL will play in seven countries: Australia, Brazil, England, France, Germany, Mexico, and Spain.
Where is the first international game of the 2026 season being played?
The season’s international slate begins in Melbourne, Australia, at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on September 10, featuring the San Francisco 49ers against the Los Angeles Rams.
Which teams are playing in Madrid?
The Atlanta Falcons will host the Cincinnati Bengals at the Bernabéu Stadium in Madrid, Spain, on November 8.
Looking Ahead
As the NFL continues to push the boundaries of professional sports, the 2026 international schedule serves as a clear indicator of the league’s trajectory. By investing in diverse markets and world-class venues, the NFL is not just playing games abroad; it is building a permanent, global culture around American football.