The NFL’s international expansion will take another major step forward in 2026 when the Cincinnati Bengals and Atlanta Falcons meet in Madrid, Spain. The league officially announced that the matchup will take place on Sunday, Nov. 8, during Week 9 of the 2026 season at the historic Bernabéu Stadium, home of Real Madrid C.F.
Kickoff is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. CET / 9:30 a.m. ET, and the game will air exclusively on NFL Network along with local broadcasts in Cincinnati and Atlanta. The event continues the NFL’s growing push to establish a stronger presence across Europe and other international markets.
NFL Continues Aggressive International Expansion
The 2026 Madrid game represents far more than just another regular-season matchup overseas. It is part of the NFL’s broader strategy to turn the sport into a truly global product. The league announced that nine international games will be played across four continents during the 2026 season, with cities such as Melbourne, Rio de Janeiro, London, Paris, Munich, and Mexico City also hosting games.
Madrid has quickly become one of the NFL’s most important international destinations. Earlier this year, the league confirmed a multi-year agreement to stage regular-season games at the Bernabéu beginning in 2026. Spain currently boasts more than 11 million NFL fans, making it one of the fastest-growing football markets in Europe.
“The NFL is ready to create history again in Madrid as we welcome the Bengals and Falcons to the Bernabéu – Stadium – the second regular season NFL game to be staged in Spain,” said NFL Spain Country Manager Rafa De Los Santos. “We look forward to bringing the excitement of the NFL to fans in Spain, and welcoming fans from around the world as we showcase Madrid as a global sport and entertainment city once again.”
The NFL also continues to invest heavily in grassroots development overseas. NFL Flag launched in Spain in 2024 and has already expanded into schools across Madrid, Barcelona, and Zaragoza. With flag football scheduled to debut at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, the league clearly views international youth participation as a major part of its future.
Bengals and Falcons Gain Global Spotlight
For both franchises, the Madrid game offers a rare opportunity to strengthen their international fanbases while representing the NFL on one of the sport’s largest stages.
The Bengals continue to build global recognition following several successful seasons behind quarterback Joe Burrow. Cincinnati leadership views the Madrid game as another opportunity to grow the franchise beyond the United States.
“We are excited to take the Bengals abroad again and build upon the incredible support of our global fanbase and help the league continue to grow the game of football across the world,” said Bengals Director of Strategy and Engagement Elizabeth Blackburn. “This Madrid game is a special opportunity to showcase the passion, energy and community that define the Bengals’ fandom worldwide.”
Atlanta also embraced the opportunity to participate in one of the NFL’s showcase international events. Falcons President and CEO Greg Beadles emphasized the significance of playing inside one of the world’s most iconic stadiums while connecting with a new audience ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
“We are truly honored and deeply grateful for the opportunity to host the Cincinnati Bengals at the Bernabéu, one of the world’s most iconic venues,” said Falcons President and CEO Greg Beadles. “This matchup represents a unique opportunity to connect with fans in Spain, and we sincerely appreciate the NFL’s continued commitment to growing the game on a global stage.”
The Bernabéu has already hosted one NFL contest, when the Washington Commanders faced the Miami Dolphins in 2025. Now, the Bengals and Falcons will add another chapter to the NFL’s growing international history.
Dujunnea Bland is a NFL and NHRA reporter for SportsJourney. Bland was a New Orleans Saints Reporter and Content Producer for About.com and a contributor at USA TODAY SMG's Redskins Wire. You can follow him on Twitter @NotBland21
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