NFL approves up to 10 international games per season
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- NFL approved a schedule that could feature up to 10 international games per season starting in 2027, up from the previous maximum of eight.
- NFL voted to strip teams of the right to protect any home games from being moved abroad, ending the prior rule that allowed two protected games per team.
- 2026 International schedule lists nine games in Melbourne, Rio de Janeiro, London (three games), Paris, Madrid, Munich, and Mexico City.
- Peter O'Reilly, NFL executive vice president of club business, said Asian markets such as Japan are important despite travel complexities and could be explored for future sites.
- Roger Goodell has set a long‑term goal of 16 international games per season.
Why it matters: NFL teams gain new revenue streams from overseas ticket sales and broadcasting, while fans lose guaranteed home games; the 2027 schedule can include up to 10 foreign fixtures, expanding the league’s global brand and adding logistical complexity.
