NFL Expands International Presence
The National Football League (NFL) has announced an exciting new development for its international expansion efforts. On Monday, it revealed a multiyear agreement to host additional regular-season games at the iconic Santiago Bernabeu Stadium in Madrid, home to the prestigious Real Madrid football club. While the specific duration of this new partnership and the teams that will participate in the inaugural game of the 2026 season remain undisclosed, the announcement underscores the league’s commitment to expanding its global footprint.
Successful Ventures and Future Plans
The league’s first regular-season game in Spain, held last November, saw the Miami Dolphins triumph over the Washington Commanders with a close score of 16-13, in overtime, attracting an impressive audience of 78,610 fans. This match marked the seventh and final international game of the NFL’s 2025 season—setting a record for the league in terms of international events per year.
In addition to its successful venture in Madrid, the NFL ventured into new territories in 2025, including its inaugural games in Dublin and Berlin. The league made a return to Sao Paulo for a second consecutive year and played three games in London, demonstrating its ongoing commitment to global outreach.
Future Opportunities in Spain and Beyond
Moreover, discussions regarding potential games in Barcelona are also on the table, hinting at the league’s desire to cement its presence across Spain. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell previously indicated ambitions to have each team participate in an international game yearly, and efforts are underway to include markets in Asia as part of their expansive strategy. For the upcoming year, the NFL is set to play in Australia and will also introduce a game in Rio de Janeiro, in addition to other engagements in Munich, Germany, and London.
In Spain, the Miami Dolphins, Kansas City Chiefs, and Chicago Bears hold the marketing rights, reinforcing the NFL’s interest in the Spanish market as it looks to broaden its appeal across continents.
