Mexico City, Mexico — The San Francisco 49ers will make their return to Mexico City for the 2026 NFL season, marking a significant step in the league’s commitment to engage its international fanbase. This year, the 49ers will also play one regular season game at Estadio Banorte, although the opponent has yet to be revealed.
This initiative comes as part of the NFL’s three-year plan to host regular-season games in Mexico City, emphasizing the league’s growing footprint in a market known for its fervent football supporters. With the largest NFL following outside the United States, Mexico plays a vital role in the league’s expansion efforts. The NFL and the 49ers have invested in fan engagement programs, NFL Flag development, and initiatives aimed at making a positive impact in local communities.
The 49ers have a storied history of playing in Mexico, with their last visit in 2022, where they triumphed over the Arizona Cardinals 38-10 during a “Monday Night Football” game at Estadio Azteca. Over the past two decades, the NFL has hosted six games in Mexico City, and the 49ers have been part of this rich narrative, including their involvement in the NFL’s inaugural international regular season game in 2005 against the Cardinals.
Arturo Olivé, director general of NFL Mexico, expressed excitement about returning to Mexico City. “We are thrilled to bring regular-season NFL games back, reinforcing our deep connection with fans here,” he stated. Olivé highlighted Estadio Banorte as a venue of “incredible moments” in their international history, reiterating the NFL’s commitment to cultivating the sport at all levels within the country.
As anticipation builds for the 2026 matchup, fans looking to secure their place at the game have options through the NFL’s official hospitality partner, On Location. The company has unveiled a Priority Access deposit program that allows fans to reserve their spots for the Mexico City game while offering premium seating, fan events, airfare, and accommodation packages. More information is available through their official site.
The NFL’s continued engagement in Mexico underscores a strategic focus on international markets, where enthusiasm for American football has only grown in recent years. The 49ers, a team with a rich tradition and passionate fanbase, represent a key component in this global expansion, promising to deliver an unforgettable experience for football fans in Mexico City come 2026.