The National Football League announced on February 18, 2026, that the San Francisco 49ers will return to Mexico as part of the 2026 International Series. The team will be the designated “home” team for a regular-season game at Estadio Banorte (historically known as Estadio Azteca).
This move solidifies the 49ers’ status as one of Mexico’s most beloved franchises, marking their third regular-season appearance in the country following their historic 2005 debut and their dominant 2022 victory.
A “Home Away From Home”
The 49ers have a deep connection with the Mexican fan base, which is the largest for the NFL outside the United States (estimated at 40 million fans).
- Global Markets Program: San Francisco is one of 10 teams with exclusive marketing rights in Mexico, allowing them to build a year-round presence through fan events and youth flag football initiatives.
- Heritage: Linebacker Fred Warner, a key leader of the defense, has frequently celebrated his Mexican heritage, further strengthening the bond between the team and the local “Faithful.”
A Record-Breaking Travel Schedule
The Mexico City game is just one part of a historic, globe-trotting 2026 season for the 49ers. The team is set to become the first in NFL history to play international games on two different continents in a single season:
- Melbourne, Australia (Week 1): The 49ers will open the 2026 season against the Los Angeles Rams at the Melbourne Cricket Ground—the first NFL game ever played in Australia.
- Mexico City (December): San Francisco will host a game at Estadio Banorte late in the season.
- Travel Impact: This international double-header will contribute to a projected 38,000 air miles for the 49ers in 2026, a new NFL record for a single season.
Venue: The Iconic Estadio Banorte
Formerly known as Estadio Azteca, the venue is undergoing a massive renovation ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. For the NFL game, it is expected to have a capacity of 90,000, promising an electric atmosphere that CEO Al Guido described as a “true home-field advantage abroad.”
Potential Opponents for Mexico City 2026
While the official date and opponent will be revealed during the NFL schedule release in May 2026, the 49ers’ designated home opponents for the season include:
- Division Rivals: Arizona Cardinals, Seattle Seahawks.
- Inter-Conference/Other: Philadelphia Eagles, Washington Commanders, Minnesota Vikings, Las Vegas Raiders, Denver Broncos, and Miami Dolphins.