BREAKING NEWS: Miami Dolphins to Face Washington Commanders in Historic NFL Showdown in Madrid on November 16
In a landmark move that signals the NFL’s accelerating global expansion, the league has announced that the Miami Dolphins will face the Washington Commanders in Madrid, Spain on November 16, 2025, as part of Week 11 of the regular season. The high-stakes clash will be held at the iconic Estadio Santiago Bernabéu, home of Spanish football giants Real Madrid CF, marking the first-ever NFL regular-season game on Spanish soil.
This monumental decision is part of the NFL’s ongoing “Global Markets Program,” which aims to bring American football to new international audiences, deepen fan engagement, and foster a truly global appreciation of the sport. Madrid becomes the fifth European city to host an NFL game, following in the footsteps of London, Frankfurt, Munich, and Dublin.
A Historic Moment for Spain and the NFL
The NFL’s choice of Madrid is both strategic and symbolic. Spain has experienced growing interest in American football in recent years, driven by the increasing popularity of NFL games broadcast nationally and a vibrant grassroots football scene, particularly in Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia. By bringing a marquee matchup to a city steeped in sporting tradition, the league hopes to capitalize on that momentum.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell expressed his excitement in a press release:
“We are thrilled to bring NFL football to Madrid for the very first time. The passion that Spanish sports fans have for competition is world-renowned, and we believe they’ll embrace the NFL with that same enthusiasm. This game is a major step forward in our commitment to growing the game globally.”
The Matchup: Dolphins vs. Commanders
This Week 11 clash promises fireworks as it pits two franchises with rich histories and plenty of ambition.
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Miami Dolphins: Coming off consecutive playoff appearances, the Dolphins, led by quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and wide receiver Tyreek Hill, are looking to assert themselves as perennial contenders in the AFC. Their high-octane offense and aggressive defense under head coach Mike McDaniel have made them must-watch television in recent years.
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Washington Commanders: Under the guidance of new head coach Dan Quinn, the Commanders are undergoing a major rebuild centered on young quarterback Jayden Daniels, the 2024 Heisman Trophy winner. With a revamped coaching staff and a commitment to youth and athleticism, Washington is hoping to surprise the league this season.
The neutral-site game adds another layer of intrigue, as neither team will benefit from home-field advantage. Playing on an unfamiliar surface, in front of a likely mixed crowd of European fans and traveling supporters, will test both squads’ adaptability and preparation.
Fan Experience: A Football Festival in Madrid
To complement the game, the NFL is organizing a week-long football festival in Madrid, featuring youth clinics, fan zones, tailgate-style events, and meet-and-greets with current and former NFL stars. Spanish fans and international visitors will have a chance to immerse themselves in American football culture like never before.
The Bernabéu Stadium, currently undergoing major renovations to become one of the most technologically advanced stadiums in the world, is expected to be packed with more than 80,000 fans, showcasing the full spectacle of an NFL Sunday in one of Europe’s most iconic sports venues.
Tickets are expected to go on sale in July, and demand is predicted to be intense, with fans across Europe and the U.S. eager to witness history firsthand.
Players React to the International Opportunity
Players and coaches from both teams have reacted positively to the announcement.
Tyreek Hill, Dolphins wide receiver:
“It’s gonna be wild to play in a place like Madrid. The culture, the energy—it’s going to be a moment, man. I can’t wait to bring the Cheetah show to Spain.”
Jayden Daniels, rookie quarterback for the Commanders:
“It’s a blessing, man. I’ve never been to Europe, so getting the chance to play in front of a whole new crowd and represent the Commanders overseas—it’s something I’ll never forget.”
Strategic Growth: NFL’s Global Footprint Expands
This Madrid game is part of a broader strategy by the NFL to internationalize its brand and operations. Other games in the 2025 International Series include:
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Two games in London (Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and Wembley)
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One in Frankfurt, Germany
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A game in São Paulo, Brazil
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And now, the inaugural game in Madrid, Spain
With increasing calls for a European division or at least more consistent international scheduling, this move adds fuel to the speculation. Madrid, with its strong sports infrastructure and central location, could be a long-term host city for future NFL events or even a franchise.
What to Expect on Game Day
Kickoff for the Madrid matchup is expected to be scheduled in the early afternoon local time (around 3:30 p.m. CET), which will align with morning broadcasts in the U.S. Eastern Time zone, ensuring prime television slots for both domestic and international audiences.
Broadcast partners including ESPN, NFL Network, and Sky Sports will offer multi-language commentary, while NFL Game Pass will carry the match to over 200 countries.
Final Thoughts
The Miami Dolphins vs. Washington Commanders game in Madrid is not just another regular season contest—it’s a milestone in the NFL’s transformation into a truly global league. For fans in Spain, Europe, and around the world, November 16 will mark a new chapter in the story of American football.
Whether it’s a thrilling overtime showdown, a highlight-reel performance, or simply the spectacle of the NFL in a new country, one thing is certain: Madrid is ready for some football