The NFL’s record-setting seven international games in 2025 have established a new standard for the league’s growing global presence. This year’s slate — the largest ever outside the United States — now serves as the baseline for 2026 and beyond, as the NFL continues building toward Commissioner Roger Goodell’s goal of a full-season international schedule.
Confirmed sites for next year already include Melbourne, Australia, and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, with a return to Mexico City also expected. League officials have identified about 13 priority markets worldwide, balancing infrastructure readiness with strategic, cultural, and commercial value.
“It’s not just about the stadium,” said NFL EVP Peter O’Reilly. “It’s about the long-term value, what are the partnerships, and what’s the strategic importance of that market.”
Saudi Arabia Could Become the NFL’s Next Major Market
Among those potential markets, Saudi Arabia has emerged as one of the most intriguing possibilities for future NFL games. League executives confirmed the country will be evaluated as part of the NFL’s Global Markets Program, following expressions of interest from Saudi officials eager to bring the league to the Middle East.
If approved, Saudi Arabia would become the first Middle Eastern nation to host an NFL game, joining an elite list of countries — including the U.K., Germany, Australia, and Brazil — that have staged official regular-season contests.
“One of the great things from the last couple of years is the increased interest we’ve received,” said NFL SVP Gerrit Meier. “You don’t get that interest unless you signal to the world that you’re serious about expanding globally.”
The move would align with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative, a national strategy focused on diversifying the economy and transforming the kingdom into a global hub for sports, entertainment, and tourism. In recent years, Saudi Arabia has invested heavily in LIV Golf, Formula 1, and European soccer, and has hosted major boxing and esports events — positioning itself as a rising power in the global sports ecosystem.
NFL analysts note that hosting an NFL game in Riyadh or Jeddah could strengthen the league’s reach into new fan bases, attract sponsorship from Middle Eastern partners, and bolster its long-term goal of becoming a truly global sports league.
A Competitive and Unpredictable 2025 Season
While the league expands globally, the 2025 NFL season itself has been marked by unprecedented parity. After seven weeks, six of eight divisions have new leaders or co-leaders compared to last year, and nine teams that missed the 2024 postseason are currently at or above .500.
The defending Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles remain formidable, but the resurgence of the Denver Broncos, New England Patriots, and Seattle Seahawks has defined the season’s early narrative.
“You can go from worst to first, and after seven weeks of play, we’re seeing that,” said NFL EVP of football operations Troy Vincent.
This high level of competition has reinforced one of the NFL’s greatest selling points — that every team has a chance to contend — a message that resonates with international audiences discovering American football for the first time.
Kickoff Rule Success Keeps “Foot” in Football
The NFL’s dynamic kickoff rule, refined for 2025, has also made headlines. The league reports a 79.3% return rate this season — more than double last year’s mark — creating more excitement and on-field action while maintaining safety.
“I’m just happy that the foot is still in the game,” Vincent added, celebrating the revival of one of football’s most iconic plays.
The success of the new rule has been praised as a model of innovation, enhancing the sport’s entertainment value both domestically and abroad.
The NFL’s Global Era Has Officially Begun
From Melbourne and Rio to potential expansion into Saudi Arabia, the NFL is embracing its identity as a global league. As the organization pushes toward a full season of international games, fans can expect new markets, new partnerships, and new opportunities for the sport to grow worldwide.
What began as a few London exhibitions has evolved into a strategic global enterprise, positioning the NFL as not just America’s game — but the world’s next great sporting export.