The San Francisco 49ers will play a regular-season game in Mexico City again, the NFL confirmed Wednesday. While the exact date and opponent have not been finalized, the game is scheduled to take place at the recently renovated Azteca Stadium, now renamed Banorte, marking a significant return to this iconic venue.
Azteca Stadium’s Renovation Ahead of Major Sporting Events
Azteca Stadium has been closed since May 2024 as part of extensive renovations in preparation for the 2026 World Cup. The venue is expected to reopen in March with a high-profile soccer match between Mexico and Portugal, setting the stage for its renewed role as a top-tier sports destination.
Commitment to NFL’s International Expansion with Multi-Year Deal
This upcoming 49ers game is the first in a three-year agreement between the NFL and Mexican authorities to host regular-season games in Mexico. The initiative reflects the league’s ongoing effort to strengthen ties with its large fan base south of the border and expand the NFL’s global presence.
Significance of the 49ers’ Previous Mexico City Appearances
San Francisco last played in Mexico City during the 2022 NFL season, defeating the Arizona Cardinals 38-10 in a memorable Monday night game at Estadio Azteca. The 49ers also participated in the league’s inaugural international regular-season game in Mexico City in 2005 against the Cardinals. Since then, the NFL has held six games in Mexico, highlighting the country’s importance in the league’s international strategy.
Statements from NFL and 49ers Leadership Reflect Enthusiasm
“We are delighted to bring regular-season NFL games back to Mexico City, reaffirming our deep and long-standing connection with fans across the country,”
said NFL Mexico director General Arturo Olivé.
49ers CEO Al Guido added,
“We are thrilled to return to Mexico and to play in front of one of the most passionate fan bases in the league. After two unforgettable experiences in 2005 and 2022, we are excited to reunite with the Mexico faithful.”
Mexico’s Growing NFL Fandom and Market Opportunities
According to the NFL’s office in Mexico, the 49ers are among the most popular teams in the country, alongside the Dallas Cowboys, Pittsburgh Steelers, and New England Patriots. Mexico is reported to have a fan base of approximately 40 million, the largest outside the United States. As part of the NFL’s Global Markets Program, the 49ers hold exclusive marketing rights in Mexico, enabling them to deepen their brand presence internationally.
Looking Forward: International Games in Australia and Mexico
The Mexico City game will be the 49ers’ second international contest this season, as they are also scheduled to play the NFL’s first regular-season game in Australia. These international appearances highlight the team’s role in the NFL’s efforts to promote the sport globally while engaging passionate fans far beyond American borders.
