The NFL is heading back to Mexico City in 2026, and all signs point to the San Francisco 49ers playing host at Estadio Banorte - the newly renamed Estadio Azteca. According to reports, the Niners are expected to be the designated home team for one of the league’s nine international games next season.
This move isn’t entirely out of the blue. 49ers CEO Jed York hinted earlier this month that an international home game was on the table, and now it appears Mexico City is the destination. While the league has yet to officially confirm the matchup, the dots are starting to connect - and one team that could be on the other side of the field is the Denver Broncos.
Here’s why that makes sense: Denver is slated to face San Francisco on the road in 2026, and Mexico is also the Broncos’ designated international market. So if the 49ers are hosting in Mexico, Denver becomes a logical choice as their opponent. Again, nothing is locked in, but the pieces are lining up.
What makes this even more intriguing is that it might not be San Francisco’s only trip abroad next season. The 49ers are already scheduled to play in Australia against the Los Angeles Rams - a groundbreaking move as the NFL expands its global footprint.
If the Mexico City game comes together as expected, that would put the Niners on the international stage twice in one season. That’s a heavy travel load, but it also speaks to the franchise’s global appeal and the league’s confidence in their draw overseas.
The 2026 international slate is shaping up to be the NFL’s most ambitious yet, with nine games scheduled outside the United States. While not all the matchups have been officially confirmed, the league’s strategy is clear: bring marquee teams and compelling matchups to global fans, and do it in markets where the NFL is actively building its brand.
For Denver, the potential Mexico City game would be a strategic fit. The Broncos have been building their presence in Mexico, and playing in their international home market could offer a unique opportunity to deepen fan engagement. It also gives them a chance to play a high-profile game without giving up a true home date at Mile High.
As we wait for the league to finalize the full 2026 international schedule, keep an eye on this potential Niners-Broncos clash in Mexico. It could be one of the most anticipated international games of the season - a matchup between two storied franchises, set against the backdrop of one of football’s most passionate international fan bases.