NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell announced on Monday that the league will officially return to Mexico City for a regular-season game in December 2026, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network. The announcement confirms a significant expansion of the league's global footprint for the 2026 campaign.
With the addition of the Mexico City fixture, the NFL is now slated to play a total of nine international games during the 2026 season. This move aligns with the league's recent resolution to increase the number of games played outside the United States as it seeks to grow its international audience. The NFL has recently hosted successful events in London, Germany, and Brazil.
Mexico City’s Estadio Azteca has historically been a primary venue for the NFL International Series, but the league has been absent from the market since 2022. The stadium is currently undergoing massive renovations in preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The December 2026 date suggests the NFL will be among the first major events to return to the iconic venue following its upgrades.
Specific details regarding the two teams participating in the Mexico City matchup, as well as the official kickoff time, have not yet been disclosed by the league. The 2026 international slate is expected to be the largest in NFL history.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
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