The NFL officially announced its return to Mexico for regular season games starting in 2026, with matches at Estadio Banorte in Mexico City over three years. Commissioner Roger Goodell confirmed the news during Super Bowl LX week. A game is expected in December of that year.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell confirmed on February 2, 2026, during a press conference ahead of Super Bowl LX, the league's return to Mexico. The NFL will play regular season games at Estadio Banorte in Mexico City starting in the 2026 season, under a three-year contract.
Goodell emphasized the NFL's global growth, noting nine international games that season, including Mexico's in December at the renovated Estadio Banorte for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. “We are proud of the growth the NFL has around the world. Our goal was nine international games for this and we achieved it. First with France and now with Mexico, we return for December 2026 at a remodeled Estadio Azteca for the World Cup,” he said.
Arturo Olivé, NFL Mexico's general director, expressed excitement: “We are thrilled to bring back regular season NFL games to Mexico City starting in 2026, reaffirming our deep and lasting connection with fans across the country. Estadio Banorte has been the site of incredibly memorable moments in our international history.”
Mexico has over 40 million fans, the largest base outside the United States, and has hosted five previous regular season games since 2005. Ten teams hold marketing rights in the country, including the San Francisco 49ers, who could play. 49ers owner Jed York stated: “Mexico is one of our markets. We will give a game next year and Mexico is number one on my list.”
This return follows a four-year hiatus and shifts the schedule to December. The league has expanded to countries like Brazil and Germany, solidifying Mexico as its second key market.
