Back home!
The news that many were waiting for is now official: the San Francisco 49ers will return to Mexico City this year to play a regular season game. The NFL confirmed it this Wednesday, although we still do not know the date or the rival.
What we do know is the setting: the renovated Azteca Stadium, which now bears the name of Banorte. The colossus has been closed since May of last year for renovations with the 2026 World Cup in mind, and will reopen its doors in March with a soccer friendly between Mexico and Portugal.
“We are delighted to bring regular season NFL games back to Mexico City, reaffirming our deep and lasting connection with fans across the country,” said Arturo Olivé, general director of NFL Mexico.
A story that is renewed
For the 49ers, this is like coming home. Their last visit was in 2022, when they swept the Arizona Cardinals 38-10 on a thrilling Monday night. But the story began much earlier: in 2005, it was precisely them who starred in the first international regular season game of the NFL… also in Mexico.
“We are excited to return to Mexico and play in front of one of the most passionate fans in the league,” said Al Guido, the team’s executive director. “After two unforgettable experiences in 2005 and 2022, we are excited to meet again with the loyal Mexican fans.”
And when he talks about “faithful”, he is not exaggerating. According to official data, Mexico has 40 million American football followers – the largest number outside the United States. And among them, the Niners are one of the most beloved teams, along with the Cowboys, Steelers and Patriots.
It’s not a coincidence. The 49ers are part of the select group of ten teams with promotional rights in Mexico within the NFL Global Program. This game will also be their second international outing this season, after their scheduled debut… in Australia!
The message is clear: while Azteca prepares for the World Cup, the NFL continues to build its own legacy on Aztec soil. And the Niners want to be a fundamental part.




