In a historic move that signals the NFL’s ambition to solidify its place as a global sports powerhouse, the league announced on January 15, 2025, that it will be expanding its operations internationally with the addition of two new teams—one based in London, United Kingdom, and another in Mexico City, Mexico. This expansion marks the first time in NFL history that the league will establish permanent teams outside of North America, a move expected to reshape the future of American football on the world stage.
The NFL has long had a presence in international markets, with regular-season games held in London and Mexico City over the past decade. However, the decision to introduce full-fledged teams in these cities represents a monumental leap in the league’s strategy to grow its global fanbase. The new teams will begin play in the 2026 season, with a comprehensive plan to build infrastructure, fan engagement, and a robust international schedule.
“This is a historic moment for the NFL as we expand our reach and bring the excitement of American football to new global audiences,” said Roger Goodell, NFL Commissioner. “We are committed to making the NFL a truly international sport, and this expansion to Europe and Mexico will help us build a lasting legacy around the world.”
The London team will play at a newly constructed, state-of-the-art stadium in East London, designed to accommodate the growing demand for football in the UK and Europe. The team will compete in the NFL’s regular season and playoffs, with plans to host home games that attract both local and international fans. The addition of a European-based team is seen as a significant step toward making American football more popular across the continent, with NFL executives hopeful that it will inspire youth participation and local leagues in the region.
Similarly, the Mexico City franchise will call the Estadio Azteca its home, one of the most iconic football stadiums in the world. The NFL has long enjoyed a passionate following in Mexico, where it has hosted regular-season games since 2005, and the expansion team will serve to further elevate the sport in Latin America. With a rapidly growing fanbase, the Mexico City team is expected to be a key driver in increasing football’s popularity throughout Central and South America.
The NFL’s move into international markets comes on the heels of an increasingly globalized sports landscape, where major leagues are venturing beyond their traditional boundaries to tap into new markets. The NFL has already seen success with its international series in London and Mexico City, and this expansion is designed to capitalize on the growing global interest in American football.
In addition to the new teams, the NFL plans to establish a development program to nurture young athletes in these international markets, with the goal of eventually increasing the pipeline of homegrown talent. This includes partnerships with local youth programs and academies, aiming to raise the profile of American football in countries where soccer has long been the dominant sport.
The expansion also highlights the NFL’s increasing competition with other major sports leagues, such as the NBA and European football leagues, which have expanded their presence globally over the last decade. By establishing teams in key international cities, the NFL hopes to secure a greater foothold in the global sports market and grow its fanbase, particularly among younger generations.
While some logistical challenges remain, particularly with travel and scheduling for teams located on different continents, the NFL is confident that the expansion will strengthen its brand and create new opportunities for both players and fans. The league’s international venture is also expected to drive significant economic benefits, from game-day revenues to local business growth in the cities hosting the new franchises.
As the NFL continues to innovate and evolve, the establishment of these international teams will mark a new chapter in the league’s storied history. The move represents a bold step toward global dominance in the sports world, with American football now set to gain an even more prominent place in the international sporting landscape. The 2026 season will undoubtedly be a landmark year for the NFL, with its expansion into Europe and Mexico reshaping the way the sport is played, watched, and loved around the world.
