NFL Returns to Mexico in 2026: Announces Game at Azteca Stadium

NFL Returns to Mexico in 2026: The Azteca Stadium Prepares for Action

The National Football League (NFL) has confirmed its return to the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City for a 2026 season game, marking a significant milestone for Mexican fans.

“We have a very important announcement as we return to Mexico City in December, which I think is wonderful for our Mexican fans.”
Roger Goodell, NFL Commissioner

The NFL’s last game in the Mexican capital took place on November 21, 2022, where the San Francisco 49ers defeated the Arizona Cardinals. Renovations to the Azteca Stadium, in preparation for the 2026 World Cup, prevented games from being held in 2023.

“The Azteca Stadium has been renovated for the World Cup, so this will be an opportunity for us to return. Our ambition is to have a greater global impact.”
Roger Goodell, NFL Commissioner

Mexico stands out as the country with the largest number of NFL followers outside the United States, with approximately 40 million fans, establishing itself as a crucial market for the league. Since 2005, the Azteca Stadium has hosted six regular season games, and this new opportunity is highly anticipated.

“This is an exciting moment for the NFL in Mexico, and we look forward to continuing to build on this momentum in the coming years.”
Arturo Olivé, General Director of NFL Mexico

Roger Goodell mentioned the possibility of the San Francisco 49ers being one of the teams to participate in the 2026 game in Mexico City.

“We are grateful to the 49ers for their participation in the international games. We have not yet released the schedule, but the 49ers from day one raised their hand and said they are ready. I have no doubt that they will want to participate.”
Roger Goodell, NFL Commissioner

The NFL also announced games at the Bernabéu Stadium in Madrid, the Melbourne Cricket Ground in Australia, the Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro, the FC Bayern Munich Arena in Munich, and three matches in London. Nine games will be played outside the United States, the most in NFL history, with the goal of reaching 16 games in the future.