NFL Continues Global Push as Goodell Eyes More International Markets

The NFL’s international expansion continues to accelerate, and commissioner Roger Goodell now appears increasingly confident that the league’s future could eventually include franchises based outside the United States. Goodell recently said he has “no doubt” NFL teams will eventually be located internationally. The comments come as the league prepares for a record nine international regular-season games in 2026, spanning four continents, seven countries and eight stadiums. The schedule includes games in London, Munich, Madrid, Paris, Mexico City, Rio de Janeiro and Melbourne. NFL owners have already approved as many as 10 league-run international games per season beginning in 2027, while Goodell has discussed a longer-term goal of reaching 16 — potentially allowing every NFL team to play internationally each season.

Five International Cities to Watch

Several cities stand out as the NFL considers where its international strategy could ultimately lead.

• London, England: The NFL’s most established international market has hosted more regular-season games than any city outside the United States. London had hosted 42 entering 2026, with Wembley Stadium and Tottenham Hotspur Stadium providing proven NFL venues. The Jacksonville Jaguars have also developed particularly strong ties to the city.
• Mexico City, Mexico: Mexico City hosted the NFL’s first regular-season game outside the U.S. in 2005 and returns in 2026 after Estadio Banorte renovations. The NFL has signed a multiyear agreement for games there in 2026, 2027 and 2028, making Mexico one of its most important international markets.
• Munich, Germany: Germany has developed into another major European NFL market, with regular-season games previously played in Munich and Frankfurt. Munich hosts New England and Detroit on Nov. 15 as part of the 2026 International Series.
• Toronto, Canada: Toronto hosted six Bills regular-season games between 2008 and 2013, second only to London among international host cities entering 2026. Its proximity to Buffalo and other northeastern NFL markets would make travel considerably easier than for a European franchise.
• Madrid, Spain: Madrid joined the NFL’s regular-season rotation in 2025 and returns in 2026 when Atlanta faces Cincinnati at Bernabéu Stadium. Spain is also part of the NFL’s Global Markets Program, with several teams holding marketing rights there.

Could an International Team Really Happen?

Travel remains perhaps the biggest obstacle. A Toronto or Mexico City franchise would present fewer logistical difficulties than one based in Europe. London, Munich and other European possibilities would create significant issues involving travel time, scheduling, taxes, and player relocation. Goodell nevertheless believes those challenges can eventually be solved. He has even opened the door to an international city hosting a Super Bowl, although he indicated the NFL would first want a franchise established in that market. For now, international games remain the league’s preferred method of building audiences without committing to permanent franchises.

Betting Impact of International NFL Games

The expanding international schedule also creates another variable for NFL bettors. Games played abroad can involve unusual travel schedules, significant time-zone changes, neutral or unfamiliar stadiums and altered preparation routines. Those factors can influence point spreads, totals and NFL player props. Bettors may want to consider how long teams have had to adjust after traveling, whether a bye follows the game and how coaches have handled previous international trips. Early-morning U.S. kickoff times can also create different routines for players accustomed to afternoon or primetime games. The effect becomes even more pronounced with destinations such as Australia. The 2026 international schedule begins when the 49ers and Rams meet at Melbourne Cricket Ground in Week 1, requiring one of the longest trips ever associated with an NFL regular-season game. As the NFL increases its international inventory, travel and venue considerations may become a more regular part of handicapping rather than an occasional betting wrinkle.