The NFL is taking its show global like never before. On the eve of the full 2026 regular-season schedule release, the league has unveiled its most ambitious international slate yet—a record nine games spanning seven countries. But for Arizona Cardinals fans, the news brings a familiar sting: for the fourth straight year, the Cardinals are not part of the overseas action.
Here’s a look at the full lineup of international matchups, starting with a historic kickoff in Australia:
Melbourne, Australia (Sept. 10): San Francisco 49ers vs. Los Angeles Rams. This Thursday night special marks the NFL’s debut Down Under, pitting two NFC West rivals in a clash that could have early-season playoff implications.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (Sept. 27): Baltimore Ravens vs. Dallas Cowboys. The league returns to South America with a powerhouse matchup that features two of the most recognizable franchises in the sport.
London, England (Oct. 4, 11, 18): A triple-header in the UK this year. The Indianapolis Colts face the Washington Commanders on Oct. 4, followed by the Philadelphia Eagles vs. Jacksonville Jaguars on Oct. 11, and the Houston Texans taking on the Jaguars again on Oct. 18. London remains the crown jewel of the NFL’s international efforts with three games in three weeks.
Paris, France (Oct. 25): Pittsburgh Steelers vs. New Orleans Saints. The City of Light gets its first regular-season taste of NFL action, featuring two storied franchises with passionate fan bases.
Madrid, Spain (Nov. 8): Cincinnati Bengals vs. Atlanta Falcons. Spain enters the international rotation with a matchup that showcases rising star power against a team on the rebuild.
Munich, Germany (Nov. 15): New England Patriots vs. Detroit Lions. Germany continues to be a hotbed for NFL interest, and this game pairs one of the league’s most successful dynasties with a Lions squad looking to make noise.
Mexico City, Mexico (Nov. 22): Minnesota Vikings vs. San Francisco 49ers. The NFL returns to Estadio Azteca for a late-season showdown that could have major NFC playoff implications.
This nine-game international schedule is a significant leap from last year’s seven games, and a far cry from the five games per season the league held from 2022 through 2024. The NFL is clearly committed to growing the game globally, and for fans stateside, it means more early-morning and late-night viewing parties.
As for the Cardinals? They’ll have to wait another year for their passport to get stamped. But with the international slate expanding every season, it might not be long before Arizona gets its turn on the world stage.