San Francisco 49ers owner Jed York said in an interview during Super Bowl media week that his team would “most likely” serve as the home team for an international game during the 2026 regular season. It’ll be a record nine international games for the NFL, with most teams already confirmed. However, there are two cities, Mexico City, Mexico, and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, that are still seeking host teams.
York hinted where he could see the 49ers playing during his interview: “We always have communication with the league. 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.”
This will be the NFL’s first time returning to Mexico since 2022 and its sixth overall. In that game, the 49ers defeated the Arizona Cardinals 38-10. San Francisco also hosted the NFL’s first international regular-season game in 2005, when it beat the same Cardinals.
The following teams hold marketing rights in Mexico:
Cardinals
Cowboys
Broncos
Texans
Chiefs
Raiders
Dolphins
Rams
Steelers
49ers
The Rams are headed to Melbourne, Australia, so we can cross them off the list. Most of the host teams are in the NFC for this upcoming season. Realistically, thinking in terms of brands, the choice will come down to the Cowboys and the Niners.
Some fans may be disappointed about giving up a potential home game for an international one, but the 49ers were 7-2 away from Levi’s Stadium last year. Plus, their history in Mexico City is also working in their favor.
How would you feel about another game in Mexico City? Would you try to go? Does it hurt the team? Where it’s at in the schedule and how it impacts the block of games around it matters more than anything.
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