The New England Patriots are packing their passports for a transatlantic showdown in 2026. After a year away from international play, the reigning AFC champions are set to face the Detroit Lions in Germany—a matchup that promises to bring high-stakes football to Munich's iconic Allianz Arena.

According to a leaked pre-schedule release, the game is slated for Week 10 on Sunday, Nov. 15, with a 9:30 a.m. ET kickoff. For Patriots fans, that means an early-morning coffee and a dose of gridiron action before the day truly begins.

This contest marks New England's first international game since a 32-16 loss to the Jaguars in London back in 2024. It also serves as a return to German soil, where the Patriots fell 10-6 to the Colts in Frankfurt a year prior. The Lions, meanwhile, will be looking to make their own mark on the global stage, adding another layer of intrigue to this cross-conference clash.

From a scheduling standpoint, the game counts as one of the Patriots' nine road contests this season. But for the organization, this trip is about more than just a win-loss column. Germany is part of the Patriots' international marketing area, which also includes Austria and Switzerland. So, expect a strong contingent of red, white, and blue—and maybe a few lederhosen-clad fans—cheering from the stands.

The official announcement is expected later this week, with the full international schedule dropping at 9 a.m. on NFL Network. The entire 2026 regular season slate will be unveiled on Thursday, May 14, during an 8 p.m. ET primetime event. Until then, Patriots and Lions fans alike can start dreaming of a November morning in Munich.