Robert Kraft, owner of the New England Patriots, has reached out to NFL commissioner Roger Goodell expressing interest in having the team play a regular-season game in Scotland. This request follows a successful visit by Scottish fans and officials to Massachusetts during the World Cup, which has led to Boston and Glasgow becoming sister cities. As the NFL continues to expand its international series, the notion of a game in Scotland becomes more plausible, especially since no team has ever played there before.

By the Numbers
  • In 2026, the NFL plans to host nine international games, the most in a single season.
  • In 2027, the number may increase to at least 10, with the possibility of 11 due to a cap under the CBA allowing for exceptions.
State of Play
  • The NFL is actively expanding its international presence, with games scheduled in Australia, Brazil, France, Mexico, the UK, Germany, and Spain in 2026.
  • Kraft's ambition reflects growing enthusiasm for NFL games outside of the U.S., showcasing interest from both teams and international fans.
What's Next

If the proposal of a Patriots game in Scotland gains traction, it could pave the way for more NFL teams to explore international matchups, enhancing the league's global footprint.

Bottom Line

Kraft's initiative demonstrates the NFL's commitment to international expansion and builds on increasing global interest in American football, suggesting future games in Scotland could foster strong fan engagement and community ties.