Full Breakdown
Washington Commanders vs Indianapolis Colts: London International Series Game Set for Oct. 4, 2026
5/14/2026, 8:57:01 AM
Core Event – Commanders Host Colts at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium
The Washington Commanders will serve as the designated home team against the Indianapolis Colts at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London, England, on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026. The Week 4 contest begins at 9:30 a.m. ET and will be televised on NFL Network. The matchup counts as an away game for the Colts and marks the Commanders’ second consecutive international appearance and third overall.
Background & Context – NFL International Series Expansion and Teams’ Overseas History
The 2026 NFL schedule features a record nine international games across four continents, seven countries, and eight stadiums. London will host three of those contests at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium: the Commanders-Colts game, a Jacksonville Jaguars-Philadelphia Eagles game (Week 5), and a Jaguars-Houston Texans game (Week 6). Washington previously played the Miami Dolphins in Madrid (2025) and tied the Cincinnati Bengals at Wembley (2016). The Colts’ overseas résumé includes Frankfurt (2023) and Berlin (2025) as well as a 2016 London loss to Jacksonville.
Key Figures & Groups – Coaches, Quarterbacks, and Organizational Leaders
Washington is led by head coach Dan Quinn, while Indianapolis is coached by Liam Coen. Quarterbacks Jayden Daniels (Commanders) and Daniel Jones (Colts) will start for their respective teams. NFL U.K. & Ireland General Manager Henry Hodgson, Commanders managing partner Josh Harris, and head coach Dan Quinn have all commented on the upcoming London visit.
Data & Statistics – Recent Records, International Game History, 2026 International Schedule
The Commanders finished the 2025 season 5-12 after a 12-5 campaign the year before; their defense ranked 27th in points allowed and the offense 21st in scoring. The franchise holds a 0-1-1 record in international play. The Colts entered the 2025 season with an 8-2 start before a seven-game losing streak eliminated them from the postseason. The Colts are 2-1 in European games but have lost their sole London outing (30-27, 2016). The 2026 International Series will feature three London games, three European venues, and additional contests in Australia, Mexico, Brazil, France and Spain.
Why It Matters – Global Expansion and Franchise Implications
The London game underscores the NFL’s strategy to broaden its global footprint while providing franchises with exposure to new markets. For Washington, the contest offers a chance to improve a winless international record and to capitalize on a passionate UK fan base. For Indianapolis, the appearance reinforces the Colts’ role as a frequent participant in the league’s overseas push.
Official Statements & Responses – NFL, Commanders, and Colts Perspectives
NFL officials confirmed the schedule on May 13, noting the game’s inclusion in the league’s “record-breaking” international slate. Henry Hodgson said the league “looks forward to welcoming the Commanders and Jaguars back to London as part of the 2026 NFL international games.” Josh Harris described the London stop as “another meaningful moment to engage new communities… and continue to enhance our fanbase in the UK and worldwide.” Dan Quinn expressed personal excitement, likening the atmosphere to “a bowl game almost from college.”
Verbatim Quotes
- “We look forward to welcoming the Commanders and Jaguars back to London as part of the 2026 NFL international games,” — Henry Hodgson, NFL U.K. & Ireland General Manager
- “Last season’s trip to Madrid was personally unforgettable, and a tremendous milestone for our organization. …London is home to some of the most passionate sports fans in the world. We’re grateful for the opportunity to bring the Commanders and NFL football to this unique city. This trip represents another meaningful moment to engage new communities, strengthen relationships, and continue to enhance our fanbase in the UK and worldwide.” — Josh Harris, Commanders Managing Partner
- “I'm excited, man,” — Dan Quinn, Washington Commanders head coach
- “You could feel it—like a bowl game almost from college, you know what I mean?” — Dan Quinn, Washington Commanders head coach
- “INDIANA – The NFL announced Wednesday that the Indianapolis Colts will be heading across the pond this fall to face the Washington Commanders at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London.” — NFL press release
Conflicting Reports & Gaps – Discrepancy in Colts’ International Game Count
Sources differ on the total number of international contests the Colts have played. Several outlets describe the London matchup as the franchise’s “third international game in four years,” while others label it the “fourth game playing abroad,” counting the 2016 London appearance. The inconsistency reflects varying definitions of “international game” across reports.
What’s Next – Schedule Release and Potential Bye Week
The full 2026 regular-season schedule will be released Thursday evening. Analysts anticipate that Washington may receive its bye in Week 5, following the London travel, though the official placement remains to be confirmed. Ticket distribution will be handled by the NFL, with sales details to be announced on NFL.com/LondonGames.
