NFL 2026 Schedule Release May 14 with International Games

The NFL will play 9 games outside the US in 2026, including new cities like Rio de Janeiro and Paris. This is more than last year's international games.
By Newsroom | Sports, American Football |

Official Announcement Confirms May 14 Release of 2026 Regular-Season Fixtures

The National Football League is set to broadcast its complete 2026 regular-season schedule on Thursday, May 14. This revelation comes after initial speculation about potential delays. The league has already cemented some key matchups, including a Week 1 showdown in Melbourne, Australia, featuring the San Francisco 49ers and the Los Angeles Rams. This marks a significant step in the NFL's ongoing push for global reach.

The kickoff game will see the reigning Super Bowl LX champions, the Seattle Seahawks, commence their title defense on September 9. Notably, this opening game is slated for a Wednesday night broadcast in the United States, a deviation from tradition attributed to the international game's time difference.

A Season Spanning Continents

This year's schedule expands the league's international footprint considerably. A total of nine regular-season games are slated to be played outside the United States. These games will take place across various cities, highlighting the NFL's commitment to growing its fanbase abroad:

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  • Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: A new market for the NFL, with a matchup between the Baltimore Ravens and Dallas Cowboys.

  • Mexico City, Mexico.

  • London, England: Will host multiple games, utilizing both Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and Wembley Stadium.

  • Munich, Germany.

  • Madrid, Spain: Featuring a game at the iconic Bernabéu Stadium.

  • Paris, France: Another new international venue for the league.

  • Melbourne, Australia: Kicking off the season with the 49ers-Rams contest.

Familiar Faces and Anticipated Rematches

While the full slate remains under wraps, the schedule release typically includes notable pairings. Last season's Super Bowl LIX rematch between the Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs took place in Week 2, hinting at the possibility of high-profile rematches being strategically placed. Other teams frequently mentioned as potential prime-time openers or significant matchups include the Chicago Bears, Kansas City Chiefs, Dallas Cowboys, and Los Angeles Chargers.

The league has also established a pattern of revealing select games in the days leading up to the full schedule release. These often include opening night matchups, international contests, holiday-themed games, and those designated for exclusive streaming.

Background: The NFL's Schedule Release Ritual

The annual unveiling of the NFL schedule has become a major media event. It generates significant anticipation among fans, teams, and broadcasters alike. The release dictates travel plans, strategic preparations, and fuels a year-round narrative for the league. The inclusion of more international games signifies a deliberate strategy to diversify revenue streams and cultivate a global following, moving beyond traditional North American markets. The league's increasing reliance on international broadcasts and expansion into new territories underscores a long-term vision for global sports dominance.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When will the NFL release the 2026 regular-season schedule?
The National Football League will release the full 2026 regular-season schedule on Thursday, May 14. This date was confirmed by the league after some early talk of delays.
Q: Which teams will play in the first international game of 2026?
The San Francisco 49ers will play the Los Angeles Rams in Melbourne, Australia, to kick off the season. This game is part of the NFL's plan to play more games around the world.
Q: How many NFL games will be played outside the United States in 2026?
There will be a total of nine regular-season NFL games played outside the United States in 2026. These games will be held in seven different countries, including new locations like Rio de Janeiro and Madrid.
Q: When does the NFL season start in 2026?
The reigning Super Bowl LX champions, the Seattle Seahawks, will start their title defense on Wednesday, September 9. This opening game is on a Wednesday, which is different from the usual Thursday night start, to help with the time difference for the international game.
Q: What are some of the new international cities hosting NFL games in 2026?
In 2026, the NFL will be playing games in new international cities for the first time. These include Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and Madrid, Spain. Paris, France, is also a new international venue for the league.
Q: Will there be rematches of big games from last season in the 2026 schedule?
While the full schedule is not out yet, the NFL often includes rematches of important games. Last season's Super Bowl rematch between the Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs was played in Week 2, suggesting similar high-profile games could be featured in 2026.