The NFL is an American sport, but it wants to be known globally.
NFL commissioner Roger Goodell is continuing to push forward with more and more international games. What started with one or two NFL Europe games a year has transformed into weekly international games. Goodell believes it’s important to have an international footprint.
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“In today’s world, we have to be global,” Goodell said in 2025. “Every time we play an international game, fans say they want more. I really, truly believe our game can and will be global. Our job is to share our game with the rest of the world.”
The NFL has already hosted games in Europe and South America and Asia could be next, Goodell says.
“We are serious about being a global sport,” he said.
MUNICH, GERMANY – NOVEMBER 10: General view inside the stadium, during the pre game show prior to the NFL Munich Game 2024 between New York Giants and Carolina Panthers at Allianz Arena on November 10, 2024 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by Adam Pretty/Getty Images)Adam Pretty/Getty Images
(Adam Pretty/Getty Images)
The NFL has yet to release its full, weekly schedule for the 2026 regular season. However, eight teams have already been confirmed to have international games on the schedule for next year.
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The eight teams playing internationally (so far) for 2026:
The Saints will be playing the NFL’s first regular season game in Paris in 2026.
“The 2026 NFL Paris Game will take place at the Stade de France in partnership with GL events. The Stade de France, built in 1998, is the country’s largest stadium. A multi-purpose venue, it hosts major international sports and entertainment events and is home to the French national soccer and rugby teams. It is the only stadium to have hosted a FIFA World Cup, Rugby World Cup, UEFA Champions League Finals and UEFA European Championship Finals and played a starring role in the 2024 Olympic & Paralympic Games in Paris. In addition to its sporting heritage, the venue has welcomed global music icons, including U2, Beyoncé, Jay-Z, AC/DC, Paul McCartney and The Rolling Stones,” the Saints announced.
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The Cowboys will be playing in Brazil, meanwhile, as the 49ers will be playing in Mexico and the Lions will be playing in Germany, among other games.
Which NFL international games are you most looking forward to?
This story was originally published by The Spun on Mar 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add The Spun as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
