The Washington Commanders will make NFL history this fall as they face the Miami Dolphins in what will be the league’s first official game played in Spain. Rumored to be scheduled for November 16, 2025, the game will take place at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium in Madrid as part of the NFL’s growing International Series.
Why the Commanders are headlining the NFL’s first game in Spain
This game is more than just a regular-season matchup. It’s a rare chance to see the team headline a global NFL event. With a young roster full of rising stars, including Offensive Rookie of the Year quarterback Jayden Daniels and new additions like Deebo Samuel, the Commanders will bring their high-powered offense overseas.
The franchise is coming off a breakout season under head coach Dan Quinn. They went from a 4-13 record in 2023 to a 12-5 playoff run in 2024. Their participation in this historic matchup signals the team’s rising national profile, like with the NFL Draft. Also, the NFL trusts them to help expand the sport internationally.
Madrid becomes a landmark NFL venue
The Santiago Bernabéu, known as the home of Real Madrid, will host its first NFL game. It will become the eighth international stadium to do so. The matchup coincides with a break in Spain’s domestic football schedule. This is to ensure that the game has the best spotlight in a venue that has a capacity of over 80,000 fans.
Madrid joins a growing list of NFL host cities abroad. This includes London, Munich, Frankfurt, São Paulo, and now Dublin and Berlin in 2025. The Commanders-Dolphins showdown will draw attention from fans across Europe and the United States alike.
What to know about the Commanders game in Spain
The full NFL international schedule will be announced on May 14. While ticket details are still under wraps, the game has already generated excitement online. This comes particularly among D.C. fans eager to see their team take the field in one of the world’s most iconic stadiums.
This matchup marks a milestone for the league and for D.C. as American football continues its global expansion.