Cardinals rumored for possible return to Mexico in 2026

While there has been no confirmation from the league yet, an international game would put Arizona on the global radar.

The NFL has held games in Mexico in previous seasons, with the country being the second most important market after the United States. The Cardinals’ last appearance there was in 2022 against the San Francisco 49ers.

The Cowboys are also among the most popular NFL teams within the demographic, with 8.7% of Mexicans selecting the Texas team as their favorite in a survey by El Heraldo de México earlier this year.

Pairing Arizona and Dallas would align two franchises with strong Mexican and Mexican American fanbases. A fan marketing moment with two fanbases like these would work exceptionally well for the league.

For football fans in Mexico, it would be an opportunity to see their favorite players on home soil. Many players also have family ties to Mexico, including Cardinals’ Will Hernandez.

The game wouldn’t be treated like a typical regular-season matchup. On the contrary, it would be viewed as a cultural event, as the league combines one of the United States’ most popular sports with Mexico’s heritage and passion for sports. This celebration extends beyond the field.

While the game has not been confirmed, the merging of fandoms and cultures presents an opportunity that neither the NFL, the Cardinals, nor the Cowboys are likely to pass up.