For years, Detroit Lions fans have been clamoring for a marquee international game. Now, based on the latest schedule leak, they're finally getting one—but most season ticket holders won't actually get to see it in Detroit.
On Tuesday, reports surfaced that the Lions will host the reigning AFC Champion New England Patriots on November 15 in Munich, Germany, as part of the NFL's International Series. From a league-wide perspective, this is an absolute blockbuster matchup. In fact, there's a legitimate argument this could end up being one of the biggest international regular-season games the NFL has ever staged.
But for Lions season ticket holders? This feels like a punch to the gut.
The Germany game counts as one of Detroit's nine designated home games in 2026. That means Ford Field loses what was easily shaping up to be the most attractive non-divisional home matchup on the entire schedule. The Patriots are the only non-NFC North team with a winning record in 2025 that the Lions were scheduled to host this season.
Instead of getting Patriots-Lions at Ford Field, season ticket holders are now left with a lineup of non-division home games that simply can't compare. Sure, the Buccaneers could still be competitive, and any NFL game is technically a draw. But compared to a potential Lions vs. Patriots showdown featuring two playoff-caliber teams? It's a massive downgrade for fans paying premium prices.
From the NFL's perspective, the move makes perfect sense. Detroit has become one of the league's biggest television attractions under head coach Dan Campbell, while New England remains one of the NFL's most recognizable brands worldwide. Put those teams in Germany, and the league instantly gets a globally marketable event.
The atmosphere in Munich will likely be incredible. Ratings will probably explode. The NFL will celebrate another international success story.
Meanwhile, Lions season ticket holders are left subsidizing a game many of them will never realistically attend. Fans invest thousands of dollars into season tickets expecting nine meaningful home games. Instead, they're losing arguably the crown jewel of the home schedule—and that's a tough pill to swallow, no matter how you slice it.