Goodell: NFL Teams Will Play Outside US
NFL commissioner Roger Goodell expresses confidence that teams will eventually be based outside the United States.
The update
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has stated he has “no doubt” that the league will eventually feature teams permanently based outside the United States. During an interview with German media outlet RTL/ntv, Goodell said, “At some point, there will be NFL teams outside the USA. I have no doubt that this will happen one day.” The 2026 NFL season will feature nine international games across cities including Melbourne, Australia; Paris; and Mexico City, with the league voting to potentially increase to 10 international games per season starting in 2027.
Why it matters
This represents a significant shift in the NFL’s global strategy, moving beyond occasional international games to potentially establishing permanent franchises outside the US. Such a move would dramatically expand the league’s international presence, create new revenue streams, and fundamentally change how professional football is organized and consumed globally. If implemented, it would mark one of the most significant expansions in professional sports history.
What to watch
Watch which cities emerge as frontrunners for the first international franchise. Monitor how the NFL addresses logistical challenges like player travel, time zones, and competitive balance. The league has indicated that an international team would likely need to be established before a Super Bowl is held outside the US.
Sources
- Yahoo Sports — Details about 2026 international games and league expansion plans
- espn.com — Confirmation of Goodell's statements on international teams
