It’s been almost a decade since the Detroit Lions played a game outside the U.S., but that streak might end in 2026. While the team isn’t included in the NFL’s record-setting seven international games in 2025, team president Rod Wood hinted that an overseas matchup is highly likely the following year.

Why 2026?

The NFL’s 17-game schedule rotates an extra home game between conferences, and in 2026, it’s the NFC’s turn. That means the Lions will have an extra home game, making them a prime candidate to host an international matchup.

The last time Detroit played abroad was in 2015, when they faced the Kansas City Chiefs in London. With the league’s requirement that teams must host an international game at least once every eight years, the Lions are due for another overseas trip.

Germany in Play?

While the exact destination hasn’t been determined, Germany is a strong possibility. The Lions have invested in marketing there, and star receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown—whose mother is German—could make the team an even bigger draw.

The Bottom Line

With the NFL pushing for more international exposure, it seems inevitable that the Lions will be playing abroad soon. If Wood’s prediction holds up, Detroit fans across the Atlantic could finally see Dan Campbell’s squad in action live in 2026.