Detroit Lions to Play in Munich: A Historic International Game

temp_image_1771941541.232127 Detroit Lions to Play in Munich: A Historic International Game

## Detroit Lions to Bring Roar to Munich in 2026!

Are you ready for some football…in Germany? The Detroit Lions are set to play a regular season game at FC Bayern Munich Stadium during the 2026 season, marking a significant moment for the franchise and its growing international fanbase. The team announced the exciting news on Tuesday, sparking anticipation among Lions fans worldwide.

This won’t be the Lions’ first foray into international play. They’ve previously played overseas twice, both times as the visiting team at London’s Wembley Stadium. Their last international appearance was in 2015, a tough 45-10 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs. However, this time will be different – the Lions will be the *home* team in Munich, a unique opportunity to showcase Detroit football on a global stage.

### Potential Opponents & A Historic Opportunity

The opponent, date, and time for the Munich game are yet to be announced. But the potential list of visiting teams is already generating buzz. The Lions will host one of the following teams:

* Chicago Bears
* Green Bay Packers
* Minnesota Vikings
* New England Patriots
* New Orleans Saints
* New York Giants
* New York Jets
* Tampa Bay Buccaneers
* Tennessee Titans

The Dallas Cowboys, who will host a game in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, this upcoming season, are the only team with a longer gap between international games. The Cowboys last played internationally in 2014.

### A Special Connection: Amon-Ra St. Brown’s German Roots

This game holds particular significance for Lions superstar receiver, Amon-Ra St. Brown. His mother grew up in Cologne (Köln), Germany, and he has frequently visited his grandmother there since childhood. St. Brown is fluent in German, creating a unique promotional opportunity for the team and a deeply personal connection to the game.

“It has been a dream of mine to play a game in my mother’s home country of Germany since coming to the league,” St. Brown stated in a press release. “I cannot wait to play in front of the incredible fans that I’ve gotten to know through my visits and football camps in the country.”

### Lions’ Investment in the German Market

The Lions’ commitment to the German market extends beyond St. Brown’s personal connection. The team was awarded NFL Global Markets Program rights in Germany in 2024, opening doors for numerous marketing initiatives. These include an annual Thanksgiving viewing party, where 60 new German Lions fans enjoyed an authentic American Thanksgiving feast while watching the game.

Furthermore, the Lions have established a multi-year strategic partnership with Bundesliga soccer club 1. FC Köln, further solidifying their presence in the region. Brian Facchini, the Lions’ chief communications and brand officer, highlighted the advantage of having a star player like St. Brown who understands the German culture and language.

### A History of International Play

The Lions’ previous international experience is a mixed bag. While their 2015 game in London resulted in a loss, their 2014 trip featured a thrilling comeback victory over the Atlanta Falcons, sealed by a dramatic walk-off field goal from Matt Prater. The Lions currently hold a 1-1 record in international games.

The NFL has been expanding its international presence since 2007, having played 55 games outside of the United States. Other international games already announced for the coming years include matchups in Melbourne, Australia; Paris, France; and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

For updates on tickets, travel packages, and further details, visit the official Detroit Lions international page: [https://www.detroitlions.com/international/munich](https://www.detroitlions.com/international/munich).

This game represents a fantastic opportunity for the Detroit Lions to connect with a passionate new fanbase and showcase the excitement of American football on an international scale. It’s a historic moment for the franchise and a testament to the growing global appeal of the NFL.

[NFL International Series](https://www.nfl.com/international)

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