NFL Expands Global Reach with 2025 International Games in Five Countries: Spain and Ireland Join the Roster
The National Football League is going global in 2025 like never before. In a bold and strategic move, the NFL has officially announced its slate of international games for the upcoming season—bringing America’s most beloved sport to five different countries: Brazil, England, Germany, Ireland, and Spain. This marks the most globally expansive season in NFL history, adding two debut countries—Ireland and Spain—to its international playbook.
And no, there won’t be any tariffs—just touchdowns.
NFL Goes Global: Big Wins for Fans and Economies Alike
While the jokes about tariffs are lighthearted, the real impact is serious business. Hosting an NFL game offers massive economic boosts to local communities, with increased tourism, sold-out hotels, and bustling bars and restaurants. The NFL’s international expansion is not just a win for the league—but also a major score for global cities hoping to tap into the magic of American football.
Beyond the dollar signs, these games strengthen cultural ties and give fans worldwide a taste of the U.S. sports experience. Cities like Madrid and Dublin are ready to light up with NFL excitement as they host their first-ever regular season games.
First Stop: Brazil Welcomes Back the NFL—This Time With No Digital Censorship
The 2025 international series kicks off on Friday, September 5 in São Paulo, Brazil, at the iconic Corinthians Arena. Last year, the country made headlines for banning social platform X during the event—but this year, fans can freely post, stream, and tweet every play thanks to lifted restrictions.
The Los Angeles Chargers will serve as the home team, though the official opponent has yet to be confirmed. However, buzz around the league suggests the reigning AFC Champion Kansas City Chiefs might be lining up—a potential rematch-worthy showdown to launch the weekend.
If the rumors hold true, NFL fans would witness back-to-back appearances from both Super Bowl teams to open the 2025 season. Talk about a global power play.
Minnesota Vikings Make NFL History with Two International Games
The Minnesota Vikings are rewriting history books this season, becoming the first team ever to play two international games in two different countries in the same year. On September 28, the Vikings will face the Pittsburgh Steelers in Dublin, Ireland, followed by a game against the Cleveland Browns at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London on October 5.
The back-to-back international matchups show the NFL’s confidence in the Vikings’ global appeal—and mark a significant moment in the league’s commitment to engaging international fans.
More Global Action: Jets, Jaguars, Colts, and More Take the Stage
The international spotlight continues with a lineup that includes some of the NFL’s most passionate fanbases—and a few underdogs:
- October 12: Denver Broncos vs New York Jets
- October 19: Los Angeles Rams vs Jacksonville Jaguars
- November 9: Atlanta Falcons vs Indianapolis Colts
These games might not all feature playoff-caliber teams, but they’re packed with fan-favorite players, rising stars, and storylines that continue to capture global attention.
Game of the Season? Commanders vs Dolphins Set for Madrid Showdown
Perhaps the most anticipated game of the international schedule comes on November 16, when the Washington Commanders take on the Miami Dolphins in Madrid, Spain. This game is generating major buzz for multiple reasons:
- The Commanders are fresh off an NFC Championship appearance
- The Dolphins are on a mission to rebuild and return to playoff form
- Spain makes its debut on the NFL international stage
Nicknamed “Commandantes vs Delfines” by local fans, this matchup promises high energy, offensive fireworks, and a packed stadium at the new Estadio Santiago Bernabéu, recently renovated to host international events.
NFL Fans Rejoice: Football From Morning to Midnight
Most of these games will air at 9:30 a.m. ET, meaning fans in the U.S. can enjoy non-stop football from sunrise to well past sunset. It’s the kind of schedule football lovers dream about—and a testament to how the NFL is evolving into a 24/7 global experience.
NFL’s Global Strategy Pays Off
With two new countries joining the international circuit and record-breaking firsts across the board, the 2025 NFL International Games represent a turning point in sports globalization. The league is no longer just America’s favorite pastime—it’s fast becoming a worldwide phenomenon.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan in New York or a first-time viewer in Madrid, one thing is clear: NFL Sundays are going global—and everyone’s invited.
