The Home Team Is Confirmed for the NFL’s Return to Mexico in 2026
The NFL is heading back to Mexico — and the home team for the long-awaited return has already been decided.
The NFL Returns to Mexico
The National Football League is officially set to return to Mexico City during the 2026-27 season, ending the hiatus caused by renovations to Estadio Banorte ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The announcement marks a major moment for Mexican fans, who have long maintained a passionate connection with the league despite the recent absence of regular-season games on home soil.
The Franchise Selected as Host
According to ESPN reporter John Sutcliffe, the team designated to serve as the home side will be the San Francisco 49ers, pending official confirmation from commissioner Roger Goodell.
If finalized, the 49ers would reach 13 official appearances in Mexico, making them the franchise with the most games played in the country.
Potential Opponents
Although the full schedule has yet to be released, the visiting team will come from the group of opponents scheduled to travel to San Francisco during the 2026 regular season. Possible candidates include division rivals such as the Arizona Cardinals, Los Angeles Rams, and Seattle Seahawks, as well as teams like the Denver Broncos, Las Vegas Raiders, Philadelphia Eagles, Washington Commanders, Miami Dolphins, and Minnesota Vikings.
The official matchup will be confirmed once the NFL unveils the complete schedule in the coming weeks.
A Global Season Ahead
Mexico will not be the only international stop for San Francisco in 2026-27. The franchise is also slated to play in Australia against the Los Angeles Rams at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, one of the most iconic venues in world sport.
With Mexico back on the calendar, the NFL continues expanding its global footprint — and Mexican fans once again take center stage in that international strategy.
