Falcons to Play NFL Game at Bernabeu in 2026

Daniel Adebanji
Daniel Adebanji - Sports Writer, Sports Journalist
3 Min Read
Santiago Bernabeu Stadium

 

Falcons to Play NFL Game at Bernabeu in 2026

The Atlanta Falcons will headline a historic moment in the NFL international series 2026. They will host a regular season game at Real Madrid’s Santiago Bernabeu Stadium. The league confirmed the matchup, but the opponent and exact date will be revealed when the full schedule drops next month.

An Atlanta Falcons logo in the media room before the start of Falcons OTA at the Falcons Training facility.
Jun 3, 2024; Atlanta, GA, USA; An Atlanta Falcons logo in the media room before the start of Falcons OTA at the Falcons Training facility. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports Purchase Licensing Rights

NFL Expands Global Reach

The Madrid fixture is part of a record-setting slate of nine international NFL games in 2026. These contests will span four continents, seven countries, and eight stadiums. Spain will welcome its second NFL game, following last year’s clash between the Washington Commanders and Miami Dolphins.

Washington Commanders vs the Maimi Dolphins on November 16th, 2025 at the Bernabeu stadium
The Santiago Bernabeu Stadium. (image credit: NFL)

Falcons Strengthen Madrid Connection

Falcons President and CEO Greg Beadles shared his excitement:
“We are incredibly proud to be part of an NFL regular season game in Madrid at the iconic Bernabeu. Atlanta and Madrid are a natural fit, as we will also host FIFA World Cup matches at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.”

This matchup comes under a multi-year agreement with Madrid City Council and the Community of Madrid. The deal highlights the NFL’s commitment to building strong ties with Spanish sports culture.

Other International Fixtures in 2026

The Falcons’ game is one of several marquee matchups abroad:

  • Los Angeles Rams vs. San Francisco 49ers in Melbourne
  • 49ers also scheduled for Mexico City
  • New Orleans Saints in Paris
  • Detroit Lions in Munich
  • Dallas Cowboys in Rio de Janeiro
  • Jacksonville Jaguars featured in two London games, with the Commanders hosting the other

NFL’s Expanding Global Footprint

So far, 62 NFL regular season games have taken place outside the U.S. Cities like London, Berlin, Munich, Frankfurt, Madrid, Dublin, São Paulo, Mexico City, and Toronto have all hosted. The Falcons’ Madrid showcase adds another chapter to the league’s growing international presence.

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Daniel is a rising sports journalist with a sharp eye for detail and a passion for storytelling. At Yankee Scores, he covers the biggest headlines across soccer, basketball, and the NFL, bringing readers analysis that blends breaking news with tactical insight.
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