NFL Will Add Two International Teams and 16 Games
Commissioner Roger Goodell targets global expansion by doubling the annual slate of international regular-season games.
Updated on Sept. 18, 2026 in Football
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NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell plans to increase the league's international presence by adding two new franchises and expanding to 16 regular-season games abroad. This strategic shift aims to establish the NFL as a truly global sport within the next four years.
Why it matters
Expanding into international markets is a cornerstone of the league's growth strategy to cultivate a worldwide fan base. By increasing the volume of games and potentially basing teams overseas, the NFL seeks to cement its status beyond the United States.
The NFL currently hosts 32 teams and has played 55 regular-season games in Europe since 2007. The league aims to reach 16 international games annually within four years, nearly doubling the nine games scheduled for 2026.
The players
Roger Goodell
He serves as the Commissioner of the National Football League and is under contract through the 2030 season.
The details
Goodell intends to add two international teams to maintain league symmetry while citing Europe as the most likely site for this expansion. The move depends on sustained international fan interest and the logistical feasibility of frequent travel for existing U.S.-based organizations.
Timeline
2007: The NFL began hosting regular-season games in Europe.
2026: The league will play nine regular-season games abroad.
Within four years: The NFL expects to reach 16 international games per season.
2030: The contract for Commissioner Roger Goodell will expire.
Season Trajectory
The NFL's move toward permanent international teams marks a massive scaling of the model established by the 2007 London International Series debut. This transition from hosting occasional games to establishing overseas franchises fundamentally alters the league's long-term competitive landscape.
Adding two international franchises would likely necessitate significant changes to the league's divisional structure and playoff qualification math. Fans should anticipate potential adjustments to travel schedules and broadcast windows as the NFL commits to a 16-game international slate.
The takeaway
The NFL is positioning itself for a new era of global competition by moving beyond simple neutral-site games to permanent international footprints. This strategy requires fans to prepare for a shift in how the league operates its divisional parity and international game broadcasts.
Further reading
For more on the league's growth, visit our Football section.
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