The San Francisco 49ers could be packing their bags for an international trip in 2026-and not just for a postseason run. Team owner Jed York revealed during Super Bowl media week that the Niners are “most likely” to serve as the home team for one of the NFL’s nine international games next season, a record number for the league. While most of the matchups have already been locked in, two cities-Mexico City and Rio de Janeiro-are still waiting to find out which teams they’ll be hosting.
If you’re reading between the lines of York’s comments, Mexico City looks like the frontrunner. “We always have communication with the league,” York said.
“For us, Mexico is one of our markets. We will most likely give up a home game this season to play abroad, and Mexico is always No. 1 on my list.”
That’s more than just lip service. The 49ers have a strong history in Mexico City, and the fan base there has already seen them shine.
The last time the NFL played in Mexico was 2022, when the Niners put on a show, dominating the Arizona Cardinals 38-10. That wasn’t their first international rodeo either-San Francisco also played in the league’s first-ever regular-season international game back in 2005, also against the Cardinals, and came out on top.
So, if the Niners do end up in Mexico, it won’t be unfamiliar territory. It’ll be a return to a city where they’ve had success and where the fan support runs deep.
Now, here’s where things get interesting. The NFL’s international strategy isn’t just about growing the game-it’s also about brands. And when you look at the teams with official marketing rights in Mexico, it’s a who’s who of NFL heavyweights: the Cardinals, Cowboys, Broncos, Texans, Chiefs, Raiders, Dolphins, Rams, Steelers, and, of course, the 49ers.
The Rams are reportedly heading to Melbourne, Australia, so they’re off the board. Most of the other confirmed host teams for 2026 are from the NFC, which narrows the field even more. That realistically leaves the Cowboys and Niners as the top contenders for a Mexico City showcase, especially when you consider brand power and existing fan bases in the region.
Sure, some fans might grumble about giving up a home game at Levi’s Stadium, especially with the kind of electric atmosphere that place can generate. But here’s the thing: the 49ers were 7-2 on the road last season.
They’ve proven they can travel well and win outside of Santa Clara. And when you factor in their past success in Mexico City, the idea of playing abroad starts to feel more like a strategic move than a sacrifice.
Of course, the timing of the game on the schedule will matter. If it’s wedged between a pair of tough matchups or involves significant travel before or after, it could present a challenge. But if the league slots it right, it could be more of a boost than a burden.
Bottom line: the 49ers playing in Mexico City makes a lot of sense from both a football and business perspective. They’ve got the history, the fan base, and the brand to make it work. And if you're a Niners fan with a passport and a love for road trips, this might be one worth circling on the calendar.