PARIS — The National Football League (NFL) has confirmed its strategic international expansion will include France as a new host nation for regular-season games starting in the 2026 season. This landmark decision positions Paris among the elite global cities selected to showcase American football at its highest level.
The New Orleans Saints have been designated as the home team for this historic contest, which will take place at the renowned Stade de France. This venue, celebrated for hosting major international sporting events, will provide the backdrop for the NFL’s inaugural regular-season matchup in French territory. The specific date and opposing team will be formally announced during the league’s full schedule release in spring 2026.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell emphasized the significance of this move: “Introducing a regular-season game to Paris in 2026 represents a pivotal advancement in our ongoing global expansion efforts. As one of the world’s premier destinations for both sport and culture, Paris exemplifies the type of vibrant international market where we believe American football can thrive.”
The selection of New Orleans stems from the NFL’s Global Markets Program, which grants exclusive international marketing rights to specific teams. The Saints maintain established promotional privileges throughout France, enabling them to cultivate local fan engagement through targeted events and commercial initiatives.
This Parisian game will contribute to the growing tally of NFL contests held outside United States borders. Since the international series launched in 2005, 62 regular-season games have been staged across numerous global destinations including London, Munich, Madrid, Mexico City, and São Paulo.
The league’s global ambitions extend beyond European markets. The 2026 season will also feature the NFL’s inaugural Australian game at Melbourne Cricket Ground, while Rio de Janeiro’s legendary Maracanã Stadium is scheduled to host another international contest, further solidifying the league’s commitment to worldwide growth.