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Detroit Lions fans might want to start checking their passport expiration dates and preparing to give up one of their home games next season.
According to Dave Birkett, the Lions have officially been informed they will play an international game in 2026, and because every NFL team must eventually give up a home contest for global play, this matchup will count as one of Detroit’s home games next season. While the league has not yet announced the location, all signs strongly point toward Germany, with Munich emerging as the most likely host city.
Why Munich Makes the Most Sense for the Lions
Detroit’s international reach is no accident. The Lions are one of the NFL’s most globally active organizations through the NFL Global Markets Program, holding marketing rights in:
- Germany
- Austria
- Switzerland
- Canada
- Brazil
But their deepest presence, by far, is in Germany, where the team has spent the last several years building a rapidly growing fan base. Their efforts include:
- Partnerships with German institutions like the Köln Marathon and 1. FC Köln
- Youth and community football initiatives
- On-site events, watch parties, and player engagement overseas
- Dedicated German-language content across digital platforms
And of course, there’s Amon-Ra St. Brown, the Lions’ German-fluent star who is enormously popular across the country. His presence alone makes Detroit one of the NFL’s easiest promotional fits for a German game.
The Lions even celebrated their International Fan of the Year, who was from Germany, further strengthening the connection.
Munich Checks Every Box for Detroit
The NFL has established Germany as one of its premier international markets, with Munich and Frankfurt both hosting wildly successful, sold-out games. Munich in particular has become a showcase location — and the NFL has shown interest in rotating teams with marketing rights into German matchups.
Given Detroit’s investment, their rising popularity, and the NFL’s desire to continue expanding in Germany, Munich is the clear front-runner.
What This Means for Lions Fans
Since this is scheduled to be a home game, Detroit will play one fewer game at Ford Field next season. Fans who plan to travel can expect:
- A massive Lions presence throughout Munich
- Special events, team appearances, and fan experiences
- A spotlight on Amon-Ra St. Brown in his second home
- A potential marquee NFC matchup featured on the international stage
The official announcement will arrive closer to the NFL’s 2026 schedule release, but if you’re guessing where the Lions are headed, Germany, specifically Munich, is the heavy favorite.
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Don Drysdale
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