Full Breakdown
NFL Eyes Tokyo for First Regular-Season Game by 2028
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
Commissioner Roger Goodell announced that the league intends to stage its first regular-season game in Tokyo, targeting the 2027 or 2028 season.
Background & Context
The NFL has a limited history in Japan. From 1976 through 2005 the league staged 14 preseason contests on Japanese soil, 13 of which were played in Tokyo. The most recent exhibition featured the Atlanta Falcons and Indianapolis Colts in August 2005. Since then the league’s international slate has expanded, with nine games scheduled abroad in the 2026 season—including matchups in London, Melbourne, Rio de Janeiro, Paris, Madrid, Munich and Mexico City.
Data & Statistics
- International slate 2026: nine games (three in London, one each in Melbourne, Rio, Paris, Madrid, Munich, Mexico City).
- Collective bargaining agreement: permits up to 10 international games per season.
- Japan exhibition history: 14 preseason games (1976-2005), 13 in Tokyo.
- Future target: Goodell cited 2027-2028 as the window for a Tokyo regular-season contest.
- League leadership: Vice president of club business, international and league events Peter O’Reilly said the NFL is “considering” expanding to 10 international games for 2027 and identified Asia as a “new region” under review.
Official Statements & Responses
Goodell highlighted the Week 1 game in Melbourne, which drew 100,000 spectators, as proof the league can handle travel and time-zone challenges without hurting team performance. He added that those experiences suggest further opportunities in new markets. O’Reilly confirmed the league is evaluating an increase to ten international games and that Asia, with Tokyo as a focal point, is part of that review. The collective bargaining agreement’s allowance for ten overseas contests provides the contractual framework for such expansion.
Why It Matters
A Tokyo regular-season game would be the NFL’s first in East Asia, opening a sizable new fan base and sponsorship prospects. The move fits the league’s “global markets” strategy, aimed at diversifying revenue as domestic viewership steadies. Successful execution could also set logistical precedents for future Asian venues.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Listen, Tokyo is clearly on our list, whether it's next year or the year after,” — Roger Goodell, commissioner
- “On a Friday morning at 10:30, to have 100,000 people in the stadium, it was just an incredible feeling for us. I think it's opened up new opportunities for us,” — Roger Goodell, commissioner
What’s Next
The NFL will finalize its 2027 international schedule, with the Tokyo game slated for either the 2027 or 2028 season pending venue agreements and logistical planning. Consideration of ten international games in 2027 signals that additional Asian venues may be evaluated after Tokyo’s debut.