The Chiefs’ 2026 NFL season schedule is on the horizon, and there’s one game they have their eyes set on-a matchup in Spain. With the Falcons already confirmed to play at Madrid’s iconic Bernabéu Stadium, the Chiefs are eager to be their opponents.

Chiefs team president Mark Donovan has been vocal about their interest, stating, “We’ve been very open and aggressive with the league… we want to play in Spain this year.” The team sees this as an incredible opportunity to engage with a new market and offer fans a unique experience.

The decision from the NFL is still pending, with the full schedule expected in May. However, the Chiefs are no strangers to international games, having added Spain to their list of international rights markets last year, alongside the Bears and Dolphins. Donovan emphasized the timing is perfect for the Chiefs, and playing in such a prestigious venue would be a memorable experience for their fans.

While the Chiefs are ready for the call, the league’s decision isn’t set in stone. Known for drawing large TV audiences, the Chiefs have been featured in international games before, including a season opener in São Paulo last fall.

The anticipated game in Spain is likely slated for November, similar to last year’s Dolphins vs. Commanders matchup.

The NFL is considering the Chiefs for several prime-time slots, including Thanksgiving and Christmas games, which have become a staple for the team. The timing of the Spain game could ensure that Patrick Mahomes, recovering from knee surgery, is on the field.

Chiefs chairman and CEO Clark Hunt has tempered expectations about opening the season against the Seahawks in Seattle, with Donovan echoing this sentiment. Although the Chiefs are scheduled to visit Seattle, Mahomes’ recovery timeline leaves Week 1 participation uncertain.

The Chiefs’ enthusiasm for international play continues, with a potential overseas clash with the Falcons adding an intriguing twist. The two teams last faced off two years ago, but their upcoming matchup is due to both finishing third in their divisions, a criterion for the 17th game added in 2021.

The Falcons’ home schedule includes the Chiefs, Panthers, Saints, Buccaneers, Bears, Lions, Ravens, Bengals, and 49ers. With the Lions and 49ers already set for overseas games, and division rivals like the Panthers, Saints, and Buccaneers less likely, the Bears, Ravens, and Bengals emerge as potential contenders. Notably, the Bears also hold marketing rights in Spain.

In recent years, the Chiefs have taken their talents to Brazil, Germany, and Mexico City. Their reception in São Paulo was a testament to their growing global presence. Mahomes himself remarked on the warm welcome, highlighting the Chiefs’ mission to spread American football worldwide.

Donovan frequently mentions the Chiefs’ ambition to become the “world’s team.” With marketing rights in seven countries or territories, including Austria, Germany, Ireland, Mexico, Spain, Switzerland, and the UK, they are well on their way to achieving that goal.