The National Football League (NFL) has released its schedule for the upcoming season, which includes international games for some historic franchises such as the Green Bay Packers, Philadelphia Eagles, New England Patriots, and New York Giants. These matches will take place in London, Munich, and São Paulo, marking the first game in Brazil. However, one notable absence from the international lineup is the defending Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs.
The Chiefs decided to forego an extra home game in order to continue expanding their brand in Germany, a country with a significant NFL fan base. With 18 million fans, including 3.6 million avid supporters, Germany has become a key market for the NFL. The Chiefs, alongside the Patriots, have emerged as the most popular teams in the country, making strategic decisions to capitalize on this growing fanbase. As part of the NFL’s Global Markets Program, the Chiefs have access to marketing, fan engagement, and commercialization opportunities in Germany.
Despite hosting a game in Germany last year, the NFL has scheduled the Patriots to play in the United Kingdom this year, facing the Jacksonville Jaguars at London’s Wembley Stadium. This decision reflects the league’s aim to broaden its international reach and engage with fans across different regions. With the Patriots transitioning from the Tom Brady era and coming off a challenging season, the team’s international appeal may have diminished. However, the Chiefs’ popularity and success have positioned them as a sought-after team for international games.
While the Mexico game is not included in this year’s schedule, the Chiefs are one of nine teams with Global Markets Program rights in the country. The league may return to Mexico City, where the Chiefs previously secured a victory over the Los Angeles Chargers, in 2025. Despite the absence of an international game, the Chiefs’ schedule remains interesting and competitive, featuring matchups against the Baltimore Ravens and Cincinnati Bengals, teams they faced in the last two AFC Championship Games. These games will take place at the familiar GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium.
Overall, the NFL’s international games provide an opportunity for historic franchises to showcase their talent and engage with fans around the world. The Chiefs’ decision to prioritize their presence in Germany reflects the team’s commitment to global expansion and brand building. As the NFL continues to explore new markets and engage with diverse fan bases, teams like the Chiefs are well-positioned to capitalize on their international appeal and further establish their presence on a global scale.
