The NFL has announced its second regular-season game at the iconic Santiago Bernabéu Stadium in Madrid, Spain. On Sunday, November 8, 2026, the Atlanta Falcons will face the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 9 as part of the league’s expanding international series.
Kickoff is scheduled for 9:30 a.m. ET (local time in Spain), with the game broadcast on NFL Network and NFL+. This marks the second consecutive year the NFL is bringing regular-season action to Real Madrid’s historic home, following the successful 2025 matchup between the Miami Dolphins and Washington Commanders.
Why This Game Matters
The Bernabéu, recently renovated and one of the world’s most famous stadiums, continues to host NFL games under a multi-year partnership with the league, the City of Madrid, and Real Madrid C.F. The venue’s passionate atmosphere and capacity of around 80,000+ fans make it ideal for showcasing American football in Europe.
For the teams:
• The Atlanta Falcons, featuring rising stars like Bijan Robinson, will serve as the designated home team.
• The Cincinnati Bengals, led by Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase, will make their first international regular-season appearance since 2019.
This matchup highlights the NFL’s commitment to global growth, with a record nine international games planned for the 2026 season across multiple continents.
NFL fans in Spain and across Europe are thrilled about the return to Madrid. Official ticket packages and travel experiences are already available through On Location, the league’s hospitality partner. The game offers a unique opportunity to combine world-class football with a visit to one of Europe’s most vibrant cities.
As the full 2026 NFL schedule approaches release, this high-profile international clash is expected to draw massive global attention and further boost the sport’s popularity in Spain.