Atlanta Falcons prepare for electrifying international game in 2026
The Atlanta Falcons are set to take their game to the global stage next season. On Wednesday, the NFL announced that the Falcons will be the designated home team for one of the five confirmed international games scheduled for 2026. While the specific location, date, time, and opponent remain to be disclosed, anticipation is already building among fans.
Exciting international destinations
As of now, the NFL has confirmed games in several exciting locations, including Melbourne, Australia, marking its debut as an NFL venue; Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Munich, Germany; and two games in London, England. Although there is speculation about a potential matchup in Mexico, the league has yet to provide official confirmation.
This upcoming game will mark the Falcons’ fifth regular-season appearance overseas, with their most recent outing occurring earlier this year in Germany. The team has previously played in London on three occasions. Notably, this will only be the third time the Falcons have held the title of ‘home’ team in an international game, with prior instances in 2014 and 2021.
A look back at international performances
Given this exciting announcement, it’s worthwhile to reflect on how the Falcons have fared in their past international matchups.
2014 in London, England: Lions 22 vs. Falcons 21
The Falcons’ inaugural game abroad turned out to be a heartbreaker. In their first encounter as part of the international series, Atlanta established a 21-0 lead at halftime against the Detroit Lions. However, the second half saw a dramatic turnaround, with the Lions scoring 22 unanswered points to snatch victory from the Falcons. Despite Lions kicker Matt Prater missing a potential game-winning field goal, a delay of game penalty allowed him a second attempt, which he successfully converted, leaving Atlanta with a painful loss.
2021 in London, England: Jets 20 vs. Falcons 27
The Falcons’ 2021 matchup against the New York Jets remains their sole victory in international play. However, it was not without its challenges. Atlanta surged to a 20-3 lead at halftime, reminiscent of their earlier London experience. Yet, as history would have it, the Jets began to claw back, making the outcome uncertain until late in the fourth quarter. Matt Ryan delivered a stellar performance, throwing for 342 yards and two touchdowns, while Kyle Pitts celebrated his first career 100-yard game.
2023 in London, England: Falcons 7 vs. Jaguars 23
The 2023 encounter against the Jacksonville Jaguars is less fondly remembered among Falcons supporters, primarily due to the final score. However, it gained notoriety for its unique ‘Toy Story’ simulcast. Quarterback Desmond Ridder struggled during the game, throwing a critical interception that put the Falcons in a 17-0 hole. This game also featured a second interception on his next drive, further tarnishing the experience for fans.
As the Falcons look ahead to their 2026 international game, the hope is that they can turn the tide and deliver a more positive chapter in their overseas saga.
