The Miami Dolphins are ready to add another stamp to their passport! The team will host the NFL’s first game in Spain next season, marking a historic moment for both the franchise and the league.
While Spain is typically known for its love of futbol, it will soon have a chance to experience American football. The Dolphins are confirmed as the hosts of the NFL’s inaugural game in Spain, scheduled for November 2025.
The game will take place at Madrid’s legendary Estadio Santiago Bernabéu, with the Dolphins named the designated “home” team. Soccer fans are familiar with the stadium as it is home to the renowned soccer club Real Madrid.
The NFL’s push for a global expansion
“There is a hunger for football in this market [Spain], and we are proud to join with the NFL in growing the game internationally while engaging with old and new fans alike,” said Dolphins CEO Tom Garfinkel.
Brett Gosper, the NFL’s head of Europe, emphasized the significance of the game, stating, “The first-ever game in Spain underlines the NFL’s commitment to reaching new audiences worldwide,” per BBC.
© GettyThis will be the Dolphins’ sixth international game since 2007. They’ve previously played in the United Kingdom, Germany, and Canada. It was also recently announced that the Indianapolis Colts will host the first regular-season NFL game in Berlin in 2025, continuing the league’s push for a global presence.
London will host three matchups, featuring the New York Jets, Cleveland Browns, and Jacksonville Jaguars as home teams. With Madrid and Berlin joining London as international hosts, the 2025 season will feature at least five overseas games, with dates and opponents set to be revealed when the full NFL schedule is announced this spring.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has also hinted at returning to Brazil, and Mexico, with Ireland being considered as a “possible” future host country.