The NFL is officially heading to France. For the very first time in its history, a regular season game will take place in Paris.
The NFL made the announcement that the New Orleans Saints will play as the home team in this historic event at Stade de France, capable of accommodating over 80,000 fans. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell expressed enthusiasm about this landmark game in what is a new venue for the NFL.
“Bringing a regular season game to Paris in 2026 marks an exciting next step in the continued expansion of the league’s global footprint. Paris is one of the world’s greatest sporting and cultural cities with tremendous success in hosting global events that unite fans on the biggest stages. Playing our first-ever regular season game at the impressive Stade de France, together with the New Orleans Saints, underlines our continued global growth ambitions and we look forward to bringing the NFL to our passionate fans in France.”
NFL France (@NFLFrance) tweeted about this exciting development:
🇫🇷 Maintenant, c’est à notre tour de briller. NFL Paris Game 2026. ✨
Now is our time to shine. NFL Paris Game 2026.
The Saints have held NFL marketing rights in France since 2023, making them the exclusive team in this region, which led to their selection for this championship event. President Dennis Lauscha had previously hinted last November about this potential trip.
This will mark New Orleans’ first visit to Europe since the previous season when they played the Vikings in London. While the NFL hasn’t confirmed their matchup for this game, there are reports from a French media outlet that suggest they may take on the Browns on October 25 (Week 7). However, confirmations will be awaited from the NFL before booking any travel.
Paris is one of six cities that will showcase at least one international game: Melbourne, London (multiple venues), Munich, Rio de Janeiro, and now Paris. Both Paris and Melbourne will host their inaugural NFL games while Paris is part of the league’s ambitious goal to expand its international reach, targeting at least one international matchup for each NFL team by 2026.
