What's Happening?
The NFL has announced that the Chicago Bears will not participate in an international game during the 2026 season. Instead, the Atlanta Falcons will host the Cincinnati Bengals in Madrid, Spain, on November 8, 2026. This decision marks the second consecutive
year that the Bears have avoided playing internationally. The Bears last played an international game in 2024, where they secured a victory against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Despite having marketing rights in Spain, along with the Kansas City Chiefs and Miami Dolphins, the Bears will not be traveling abroad this season. The Bears' 2026 schedule, which includes games against teams like the Detroit Lions, Green Bay Packers, and New England Patriots, will be released on May 14.
Why It's Important?
The decision for the Bears to avoid an international game has several implications. For the team, it means less travel and potentially less disruption to their regular season schedule, which could be beneficial for player performance and team logistics. For the NFL, the choice to have the Falcons and Bengals play in Madrid aligns with their strategy to expand the league's international presence, particularly in Europe. This move is part of a broader effort to grow the NFL's global fan base and increase international viewership. The Bears' absence from the international slate may also impact their marketing efforts in Spain, where they hold rights, potentially delaying their engagement with international fans.
What's Next?
While the Bears will not play internationally this season, there is speculation that they may host a game in Madrid in the coming years, given their marketing rights in Spain. The release of the Bears' full 2026 schedule on May 14 will provide further clarity on their upcoming season. Meanwhile, the NFL will continue to focus on its international expansion, with more games likely to be scheduled in Europe and other regions. The league's commitment to international games suggests that more teams, including the Bears, could be involved in future seasons.
