The NFL’s global footprint is about to get a little bigger - and the New Orleans Saints are front and center in the league’s next international chapter.
According to reports out of France, the Saints are set to take on the Cleveland Browns in Paris on October 25, 2026. The game is expected to be played at Stade de France, the country’s largest stadium, with a seating capacity just north of 80,000. If it holds, this would mark the NFL’s first-ever regular season game in Paris - a milestone moment for the league and a major spotlight for both franchises involved.
This isn’t a surprise move for the Saints, who’ve been laying the groundwork in France for some time. Back in 2023, New Orleans was granted international marketing rights in France as part of the NFL’s Global Markets Program - a strategic initiative that allows teams to build their brand and fanbase in designated international territories. The Saints didn’t just dip a toe in the water; they dove in.
They’ve already formed a partnership with the Paris Musketeers, a team in the European League of Football. That relationship took a big step forward in November 2025, when the Saints hosted players, coaches, and executives from the Musketeers organization in New Orleans. It wasn’t just a handshake and a photo op - it was a clear sign the Saints were serious about building roots in the French market.
And now, it looks like they’ll be the NFL’s ambassadors on the ground when the league makes its long-anticipated debut in Paris.
For the Saints, this is more than just a game on foreign soil. It’s a chance to showcase their brand, their culture, and their football to an entirely new audience.
It’s also a major opportunity for Kellen Moore, who’ll be leading the team into a high-profile international spotlight. That kind of exposure can be a momentum-builder - both on and off the field.
As for the Browns, they’ll be looking to make their own impression in front of a global crowd. And while the travel and logistics of an overseas game always present unique challenges, the upside is clear: a chance to grow the game and connect with fans far beyond the U.S. borders.
There had been some earlier reports suggesting the Paris game might be delayed until 2027, but recent developments indicate that the pieces are falling into place for 2026. With the stadium lined up and the matchup reportedly set, all signs are pointing to kickoff in Paris this fall.
It’s a big moment for the league, a bold step for the Saints, and a fresh opportunity for fans in France to experience the NFL up close. Football is going global - and the Saints are leading the charge.