Commissioner Goodell teases future Tokyo game, sees 'new opportunities' for international growth

Key Points:

• NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell announced plans to return to Tokyo for a regular-season game soon, highlighting Japan as a key international market for the league's global expansion.
• The NFL is actively expanding its international presence, having played a record nine games outside the U.S. in 2026 across cities like London, Melbourne, Rio de Janeiro, Paris, Madrid, Munich, and Mexico City.
• Goodell emphasized the league's commitment to global growth through initiatives such as flag football development and strategic media partnerships to enhance fan access and engagement worldwide.
• The NFL's first game in France, featuring the Saints and Steelers at Stade de France, reflects the league's strategy of selecting teams with strong cultural or global connections to host international games.
• Looking ahead, the NFL is considering increasing international games to 10 in 2027, with upcoming matchups scheduled in Madrid, Munich, and Mexico City, reinforcing its vision of playing a truly global schedule.