Saints to Play NFL’s First Regular-Season Game in France in 2026

The New Orleans Saints are set to make history as they will play in the first-ever NFL regular-season game in France during the 2026 season, a move signaling the league’s continued commitment to international growth and fan engagement.

Paris Selected as Landmark Host City

The NFL announced that Paris will host this milestone game, marking the first time the city—and France as a whole—has staged a regular-season NFL matchup. The decision follows the league’s longstanding tradition of holding international games in London, Mexico City, and, more recently, Germany. This development not only broadens the NFL’s European footprint but also reflects the sport’s increasing popularity across the continent.

Why the Saints?

The New Orleans Saints were selected as one of the participating teams, underscoring their strong international fanbase and historical ties to French culture. The Saints' brand, which draws heavily from New Orleans’ heritage, resonates in France, making them a natural choice for this historic event. The identity of the Saints’ opponent and the exact date for the 2026 Paris game have yet to be announced, but anticipation is already building among fans and analysts alike.

Expanding the NFL’s International Presence

Paris now joins a growing list of international cities that have hosted the NFL’s marquee games. The league’s International Series began in London in 2007, with games later added in Mexico City and Munich. According to league reports, these games have consistently drawn strong attendance and television audiences, proving the global appetite for American football. The addition of France as a host nation is seen as a strategic effort to reach new fans and further develop the league’s overseas presence.

• London: Hosted regular-season games since 2007
• Mexico City: Hosted games since 2016
• Munich (Germany): First hosted in 2022
• Paris (France): Scheduled to host first game in 2026

What This Means for Fans

For European fans, especially those in France, the 2026 Paris game represents a unique opportunity to experience NFL action firsthand. The league hopes the event will boost local interest and participation in American football, as well as strengthen ties with its existing European fanbase. The Saints’ involvement is expected to generate significant media attention, ticket demand, and cultural exchange between the NFL and French sports enthusiasts.

Looking Ahead: The Future of NFL International Games

The announcement is part of the NFL’s broader strategy to globalize the sport. In recent years, the league has discussed the possibility of establishing a permanent international franchise and increasing the number of overseas games per season. The Paris matchup could pave the way for future games in other European cities and potentially even a full-fledged international division.

Key Details So Far

• Event: NFL’s first regular-season game in France
• Year: 2026
• City: Paris
• Participating Team: New Orleans Saints
• Opponent: To be announced
• Date: To be announced

As the NFL prepares for this historic contest, all eyes turn to Paris in 2026. The game promises not only to deliver thrilling action on the field but also to strengthen the league’s international connections and inspire a new generation of fans in France and beyond.