The San Francisco 49ers are set to take the field in Mexico City once again for the 2026 NFL season. This marks the third time the team will play at the iconic Estadio Azteca, now known as Estadio Banorte.
Their previous appearances in 2005 and 2022 saw them face off against the Arizona Cardinals, with each team claiming a victory. The inaugural matchup in 2005 drew an impressive crowd of over 103,000 fans, setting the stage for memorable international encounters.
49ers CEO Al Guido expressed the team's excitement about returning to Mexico, highlighting the passionate fan base that awaits them. "After two unforgettable experiences in Mexico City, we’re eager to reconnect with the Mexico Faithful and feel the incredible energy of our fans abroad," Guido shared.
While the specific opponent and date for the Mexico City game are still under wraps, anticipation is building as the NFL prepares to release its full 2026 schedule in the spring.
Arturo Olivé, NFL Mexico's director general, emphasized the significance of bringing the 49ers back to Mexico City. "Returning to Estadio Banorte underscores our commitment to Mexico. The energy here is unmatched, and we’re thrilled to be part of the game’s growth in such an important market," Olivé stated.
The 2026 season will be a landmark year for the NFL's international presence, featuring a record nine games across seven countries and four continents. Mexico City is set to host games for the next three seasons, reinforcing its role as a key location for the league's global expansion.
The 49ers have another international matchup on their 2026 agenda, with a season opener against the Los Angeles Rams in Melbourne, Australia. This historic game will be the NFL’s debut in Australia, taking place at the famed Melbourne Cricket Ground.
With five previous NFL games hosted in Mexico, including appearances by California teams like the Raiders and Chargers, the country boasts a massive fan base of 40 million, the largest outside the United States. The NFL's presence in Mexico has been solid since 1998, with the 49ers among ten franchises actively engaging with fans through the league’s Global Markets Program.
As the 49ers gear up for their international tour, fans can look forward to witnessing their team make waves on a global stage, bringing the excitement of American football to audiences around the world.