Will the NFL Bring Excitement Back to Munich in 2026 and 2028?

The NFL has made significant strides in expanding its international presence, with Germany emerging as a key market. The first regular-season NFL game in Germany took place in Munich in 2022, where the Tampa Bay Buccaneers triumphed over the Seattle Seahawks. Looking ahead, the NFL has committed to returning to Munich for additional regular-season games in 2026 and 2028, highlighting the growing popularity of American football in the region.

Last updated: 10 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

The NFL's return to Germany underscores its strategic focus on international markets, particularly with the announcement of two more regular-season games in Munich. This initiative is part of a broader effort to cultivate American football's popularity beyond North America, and Germany, with its substantial fanbase, is at the forefront of this expansion. The NFL's commitment to play in both Munich and Berlin over the next few years demonstrates its long-term vision for establishing a strong presence in the country.

Key takeaways

The NFL will hold regular-season games in Munich in 2026 and 2028.
Germany is home to over 20 million American football fans, the largest in Europe.
Munich's Allianz Arena has become a prominent venue for NFL games.
Berlin will host NFL games in 2027 and 2029, expanding the league's reach.
More than 40,000 young athletes have participated in the NFL's flag football programme in Germany.

Timeline: how we got here

Since the inception of NFL international games, Germany has become a focal point for the league's expansion. Here’s a brief timeline of key events:

2020: The NFL launches its flag football programme in Germany.
2022: The first regular-season NFL game is held in Munich, with the Buccaneers defeating the Seahawks.
2024: Another NFL game is set to take place at Allianz Arena in Munich.
2023: Berlin hosts its inaugural NFL game, with further games planned for 2027 and 2029.
2026: The NFL confirms regular-season games in Munich.
2028: Another game confirmed for Munich, solidifying its status as a key location for the NFL.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The NFL’s recent announcement of future games in Munich and Berlin reflects its ongoing commitment to Germany. The league aims to foster a year-round presence in the country, enhancing engagement with local fans. Additionally, the multi-year partnership with Munich has been formalised, indicating a strategic focus on this city for upcoming events.

What was already established

Prior to this announcement, the NFL had already recognised Germany as a crucial market for expansion, with the first game in Munich in 2022 marking a significant milestone. The success of this event, combined with a growing number of fans and participation in youth programmes, establishes a strong foundation for future games.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

As the NFL continues to expand internationally, UK viewers may find increased access to NFL games, fostering greater interest in American football. This could lead to higher viewership ratings and more merchandise sales as fans engage with the sport. The growth of American football could also inspire similar events in the UK, enhancing the sports landscape.

Businesses and jobs

The NFL's expansion into Germany can potentially create business opportunities for UK companies involved in sports marketing, merchandise, and hospitality. Additionally, as fan engagement increases, local economies may benefit from tourism related to NFL games, creating jobs in various sectors including hospitality and transport.

Policy and regulation

The NFL's presence in Germany may influence sports policy and regulation, particularly in promoting youth sports and American football at the grassroots level. This could lead to discussions within UK sports policy frameworks about how to engage with and support international sporting events.

Numbers that matter

20 million: The estimated number of American football fans in Germany, the largest in Europe.
40,000: Young athletes who have participated in the NFL's flag football programme since its launch in 2020.
5: The number of international NFL games confirmed for the 2026 season.
2: Upcoming regular-season games to be held in Munich in 2026 and 2028.
2: Future games scheduled for Berlin in 2027 and 2029.

Definitions and jargon buster

NFL: National Football League, the professional American football league in the United States.
Flag football: A non-contact variant of American football where players wear flags that are pulled off to stop play.
Allianz Arena: A stadium in Munich, Germany, known for hosting major sporting events, including NFL games.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Fans can expect increased promotional activities around the NFL's upcoming games in Germany, as well as potential announcements regarding ticket sales and events leading up to the matches. Enthusiasts may also see heightened media coverage and community engagement initiatives.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As the NFL prepares for its future games, there may be opportunities for local businesses to partner with the league for marketing and promotional events. Additionally, fan engagement strategies will likely be refined, enhancing the overall experience for attendees at both Munich and Berlin games.

Signals to watch

Announcement of ticket sales and event details for the 2026 and 2028 games.
Growth in the number of participants in youth football programmes.
Media coverage and fan engagement initiatives leading up to the games.

Practical guidance

Do

Stay informed about ticket sales and events related to NFL games in Germany.
Engage in local youth football programmes to support the growth of the sport.
Follow the NFL's social media for updates and community activities.

Don’t

Don’t miss out on early ticket sales, as they are likely to sell quickly.
Don’t overlook local businesses that may benefit from the influx of fans during games.
Don’t forget to check for fan engagement events leading up to the games.

Checklist

Research ticket prices and availability for future NFL games in Germany.
Explore local youth flag football initiatives and opportunities to participate.
Engage with NFL-themed events in your community.
Follow news on NFL games in Europe and their impact on local economies.
Stay updated on potential NFL expansions to other cities in the UK.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the NFL's expansion into Germany presents numerous opportunities, there are risks associated with international ventures. Factors such as fluctuating fan interest, logistical challenges, and competition from other sports could impact the league's success in the region. Additionally, uncertainties surrounding global events may influence attendance and participation in NFL-related activities.

Bottom line

The NFL's commitment to regular-season games in Germany highlights the growing popularity of American football in Europe. With a strong fanbase and increasing participation in youth programmes, the league is poised for success in the region. For UK readers, this expansion may signal a potential increase in NFL-related activities and events closer to home, enhancing the overall sports landscape.

FAQs

When will the NFL games take place in Germany?

The NFL is set to host regular-season games in Munich in 2026 and 2028, and in Berlin in 2027 and 2029.

How many NFL fans are there in Germany?

Germany boasts over 20 million American football fans, making it the largest fanbase in Europe.

What is the NFL's flag football programme?

The NFL's flag football programme encourages youth participation in non-contact football, with over 40,000 young athletes engaging in the sport since its launch in Germany in 2020.