The San Francisco 49ers are gearing up for a whirlwind 2026 season, packed with international flair and extensive travel. Fresh off the announcement that they'll face the Los Angeles Rams in the NFL's inaugural regular-season game in Australia, the 49ers have added another global destination to their itinerary: Mexico City.
On Wednesday, the 49ers revealed plans to host a regular-season game at Estadio Banorte, a venue that seats 83,000 and is known for its electric atmosphere. While their opponent in Mexico City remains a mystery for now, this matchup marks a significant step in the NFL's three-year commitment to bringing regular-season action to Mexico, a country that boasts the largest NFL fanbase outside the United States.
The 49ers' 2026 schedule reads like a travelogue, with stops in Australia, Mexico City, and cross-country clashes against the New York Giants and Atlanta Falcons. It's shaping up to be a season where the 49ers rack up the most miles of any NFL team.
Mexico holds a special place in the 49ers' history. They last played there in 2022, delivering a commanding 38-10 victory over the Arizona Cardinals on "Monday Night Football" at Estadio Azteca.
The team has been a fixture in the NFL's international games, having participated in two of the six contests held in Mexico City over the past 21 years. Notably, the 49ers were part of the league's first-ever international regular-season game against the Cardinals in Mexico City back in 2005.
Arturo Olivé, NFL Mexico's General Director, expressed excitement about the upcoming games, emphasizing the league's dedication to its passionate Mexican fanbase. "We are delighted to bring regular-season NFL games back to Mexico City beginning in 2026," Olivé stated. "Estadio Banorte has hosted some incredibly memorable moments in our international history, and returning here underscores our commitment to growing the sport at every level in the market."
As the 49ers prepare for this globe-trotting season, fans can look forward to a unique blend of football and cultural exchange, reinforcing the team's and the league's commitment to expanding the game's reach worldwide.