The NFL is set to play nine games internationally in the 2026 season. This is the most games ever played outside of the U.S. in a single season. While not all the match-ups are set yet, there is a chance the Indianapolis Colts could play overseas.

The NFL introduced its Global Markets Program in 2022, and as of 2025, all 32 NFL teams now officially participate in the program. The purpose is to attract more fans to the NFL who are not part of the typical market. Organizations apply for rights through proposals and once granted, the club is guaranteed rights for that specific market for five years.

The first NFL regular-season international game was in 2005. The Arizona Cardinals beat the San Francisco 49ers in Azteca Stadium in Mexico City. Before that, from 1950-1983, there were multiple preseason games played out of the U.S.

According to NFL Football Operations, there are now four international games guaranteed every season. Every team is guaranteed an international game every eight years. Teams are also allowed to volunteer to play in these games. The Indianapolis Colts are officially associated with Austria, Germany, and Switzerland. The Colts joined the program in 2024 and, since then, have grown the program, adding Switzerland in the 2025 season.

According to the Colts’ website, originally, the team partnered with Germany and Austria due to players being from those respective countries. In addition, both countries have large presences in trading and exports within Indiana. Switzerland's being added was also no coincidence; Indiana ranks second in total imports from the country among the states.

This past season, the Colts hosted the Atlanta Falcons in Berlin, Germany, the city’s first time hosting an NFL game. Historically, they also played in Frankfurt, Germany, as well as London. Because of this, it is likely the Colts will not be one of the teams playing internationally this season. Colts fans should not rule it out. There are teams like the Jaguars and Falcons already set to play internationally this year who also participated last year, so it is still a possibility.

The NFL aims to continue growing internationally, with some owners such as Robert Kraft, seeking to reach a point where each team plays one every season, and there is a game weekly. However, the NFL Players Association would have to agree first.

When it comes to international games, there are mixed opinions. Some fans like the idea of the game expanding, while others do not enjoy the early mornings and the increased number of them. Some fans even want a complete “boycott" of these games. However, the only thing that should matter is if the players are willing and able, not what the fans think. Fans should be grateful anytime they get to watch their team play.

Players are the most affected by these changes, having to not only adjust team schedules but also physical schedules as well. Time changes can take a toll on their bodies, and it is not just another away game. The environment and playing surfaces are different from what players are used to, and these need to be taken into account.

While inconvenient, international growth is a positive thing. It brings in more fans, which in turn brings in more money, which helps to produce better teams and a better league overall. Players should approve any changes made regarding international play. What the owners want should not trump what is best for the players, there is no league without them.