The NFL is gearing up for its most ambitious international season yet, with nine games set to be played across four continents in 2026. As the league prepares to drop the full regular-season schedule on Thursday, details are already starting to leak—and football fans around the world have plenty to get excited about.
The action kicks off in historic fashion on Friday, September 11, when the Los Angeles Rams take on the San Francisco 49ers at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in Australia. This marks the first NFL regular-season game ever played on Australian soil, and the time difference means you’ll want to set your alarms: kickoff is at 8:35 p.m. Eastern on Thursday, September 10. It’s a game that not only pits two NFC West rivals against each other but also forces the Seattle Seahawks to start their season on a Wednesday to accommodate the travel.
Later in September, the NFL returns to Brazil. On September 27, the Baltimore Ravens and Dallas Cowboys will face off at the iconic Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro, bringing big-name star power to South America for a second straight year.
Week 9 takes us back to Spain, where the Cincinnati Bengals—led by Joe Burrow—will battle the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday, November 8, in Madrid. This game will air on NFL Network, and it’s a chance for fans to see two explosive offenses clash in a city that welcomed the league for the first time last season.
London remains a key destination, with the Jacksonville Jaguars continuing their tradition of playing two games abroad. One of those will be at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, where they’ll be joined by the Washington Commanders for a separate matchup. The Detroit Lions are also heading to Europe, taking the field at Allianz Arena in Munich, Germany—a venue that’s quickly becoming a fan favorite for its electric atmosphere.
Finally, the San Francisco 49ers will make a trip south to Mexico City, playing at Estadio Azteca. It’s a return to a stadium that’s hosted some unforgettable NFL moments, and the 49ers’ high-powered offense should put on a show for the passionate Mexican fanbase.
With games spanning Australia, Brazil, Spain, England, Germany, and Mexico, the 2026 NFL season is shaping up to be a global celebration of football. Whether you’re planning a trip or just looking for the perfect jersey to wear while watching from home, this international lineup is one you won’t want to miss.