Miami Dolphins will open a new market for the NFL during the 2025 season
There was a realistic expectation that the Miami Dolphins would play an international game in 2025. On Friday, it was confirmed. But the game will not be in Brazil, a country the Dolphins control the NFL's international marketing rights. Instead, the Dolphins will host the first ever regular season game in Madrid, Spain. Next season, […]
There was a realistic expectation that the Miami Dolphins would play an international game in 2025. On Friday, it was confirmed.
But the game will not be in Brazil, a country the Dolphins control the NFL's international marketing rights. Instead, the Dolphins will host the first ever regular season game in Madrid, Spain.
Next season, the AFC has the extra home game. Therefore, Miami Gardens will still receive eight games. The Dolphins will also play eight road games, plus the trip to Europe.
"We are thrilled to play the NFL's inaugural game in Spain, a country of rich history, tradition and passion and home to a vibrant Dolphins fanbase," said Miami Dolphins vice chairman, president and CEO Tom Garfinkel. "There is a hunger for football in this market, and we are proud to join with the NFL in growing the game internationally while engaging with old and new fans alike. With the unique synergy between Miami and Madrid, we believe this is only the beginning for us in this incredible region and we look forward to bringing the excitement and community of Dolphins football to Spain in 2025 and beyond."
The game will be played at Santiago Bernabéu, the historic Real Madrid's stadium.
The Dolphins' opponent, along with game date and kickoff time, will be announced when the full 2025 NFL schedule is revealed this spring.
Possible opponents
The Dolphins already know who their 2025 opponents will be, so it's possible to limit the options of who can face them in Madrid. The options are the three divisional opponents (New England Patriots, Buffalo Bills, and New York Jets), or one of the Baltimore Ravens, Cincinnati Bengals, New Orleans Saints, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Los Angeles Chargers, and Washington Commanders.
East coast teams are more likely options based on logistics, but the NFL hasn't given any indications of what path it will take.
"The exciting first-ever game in Spain underlines the NFL's continued commitment to expanding its global footprint and reaching new audiences across the world," said head of Europe and APAC at the NFL Brett Gosper. "The Miami Dolphins playing at the Bernabéu Stadium, home to Real Madrid C.F., showcases the global appeal of the league and of our sport, in what promises to be a historic moment."
The NFL expects to host eight international games in 2025, including Spain, the United Kingdom, Germany, Ireland, Brazil, and Mexico.
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