The Atlanta Falcons will participate in an NFL regular season game at Real Madrid’s Santiago Bernabeu Stadium in 2026, the league announced. While the specific opponent and exact match date remain unconfirmed, this event will mark a significant milestone for the NFL Falcons 2026 Madrid Game.
This game is part of a record-breaking slate of nine international NFL games planned for 2026, spanning four continents, seven countries, and eight venues. The matchup at the Bernabeu will occur under a multi-year partnership with Madrid City Council and the Community of Madrid, building on the momentum from last year’s inaugural NFL game in Spain between the Washington Commanders and the Miami Dolphins.
Details About the Falcons’ Madrid Event and International NFL Expansion
Greg Beadles, Falcons President and CEO, expressed pride in hosting a regular season NFL game at such an iconic venue, stating,
“We are incredibly proud to be part of an NFL regular season game in Madrid at the iconic Bernabeu.”
He also highlighted the connection between Atlanta and Madrid, noting,
“Atlanta and Madrid are a natural fit, as we will host two group stage matches for the Spanish national football team at the upcoming FIFA World Cup at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.”
To date, the NFL has held 62 regular season games outside the United States, with cities such as London, Berlin, Munich, Frankfurt, Madrid, Dublin, Sao Paulo, Mexico City, and Toronto having hosted matches.
The Falcons’ opponent, kickoff time, and precise date will be confirmed with the release of the full 2026 NFL schedule next month.
Additional International Games Confirmed for 2026 Season
The 2026 international schedule includes several other notable matchups: the Los Angeles Rams will face the San Francisco 49ers in Melbourne, and the 49ers will also compete in Mexico City. Other confirmed games include the New Orleans Saints in Paris, the Detroit Lions in Munich, and the Dallas Cowboys in Rio de Janeiro.
In London, three games are planned, with the Jacksonville Jaguars appearing in two of them and the Washington Commanders hosting the remaining one.
Significance of the NFL’s Global Growth Strategy
The NFL Falcons 2026 Madrid Game signals the league’s ongoing effort to broaden its international reach by engaging new markets and audiences. Hosting a regular season game at the Santiago Bernabeu, a stadium renowned worldwide, strengthens the NFL’s presence in Spain and Europe. The multi-year agreement with local authorities suggests a long-term vision for the league’s growth overseas, potentially influencing future international fixtures and fan engagement globally.
