Alexander Steinforth, head of NFL Germany, confirmed that the German market serves as a blueprint for the league’s international expansion as the NFL targets a goal of 16 international games.
Germany Serves as the Blueprint for Global Expansion
The NFL’s international footprint has expanded far beyond its traditional roots in London to include regular-season games in Munich, Dublin, Madrid, Paris, Melbourne, and Rio de Janeiro. During an interview reported by ran, Alexander Steinforth explained that Germany’s integration into the international series provides crucial operational experience for newer markets.
“We were the first market to join after decades,” Steinforth said, noting that recent international games in Madrid and Paris have relied heavily on knowledge transferred directly from Germany. As the league looks toward future international fixtures—including an upcoming game in Japan announced by Commissioner Roger Goodell for no later than two years from now—Steinforth emphasized that Germany remains central to the league’s strategy.
If any international fixture hits logistical roadblocks elsewhere, Steinforth stated it is “very likely the German market” that would inherit the game. However, current league planning centers on establishing football in entirely new global territories rather than consolidating fixtures in existing European strongholds.
With domestic demand remaining high, the next major test arrives on November 15, when the New England Patriots face the Detroit Lions in Munich. Steinforth expects the upcoming matchup to feature the most extensive fan engagement programming seen at any Germany game to date, driven by both franchises’ deep commitment to the local market.
Stadion Infrastructure Remains the Primary Bottleneck
While cities such as Munich, Frankfurt, and Berlin have successfully hosted regular-season games—with Berlin’s Olympiastadion scheduled to host another fixture in 2027—further expansion within the country faces distinct physical limits. Steinforth pointed to stadium infrastructure as the chief constraint for hosting additional matches.
“The biggest bottleneck in Deutschland is probably the stadium infrastructure,” Steinforth said, explaining that modern venues are mandatory for NFL operations. He noted that despite preliminary stadium discussions following the wave of construction ahead of the 2006 FIFA World Cup, the league remains satisfied with its current rotation of host cities.
Despite these venue limits, interest from NFL franchises holding international marketing rights for Germany remains intense. Steinforth indicated that nearly every eligible club wants to play in front of German crowds more frequently, while several additional domestic municipalities have expressed interest in hosting games.
When the NFL plays in Germany
When is the next NFL game scheduled in Germany?
The New England Patriots will play the Detroit Lions in Munich on November 15, marking the next regular-season game in the country.
Which cities have hosted NFL games in Germany so far?
Regular-season games have been hosted in Munich, Frankfurt, and Berlin, with Berlin scheduled to host a fixture at the Olympiastadion in 2027.
What is the NFL’s long-term target for international fixtures?
The league has established an ambitious long-term goal of staging 16 international games.
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