Patriots signal interest in hosting an NFL regular-season game in Scotland

New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft has informed NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell that the franchise is interested in playing a regular-season game in Scotland. The move would represent a new potential destination for the league’s international schedule, which has expanded rapidly in recent seasons. No NFL team has previously played a regular-season game in Scotland, according to the source.

The proposal follows increased cultural and civic ties between Boston and Glasgow, which have been highlighted in recent weeks. Kraft’s message to the commissioner was framed as an expression of interest rather than a confirmed plan, and the NFL has not announced any Scotland venue or date.

The league is already set for a record number of international games in 2026, with nine regular-season contests scheduled outside the United States across seven countries: Australia, Brazil, France, Mexico, the United Kingdom, Germany and Spain. The source says the Patriots are scheduled to play in Munich in 2026, underlining how frequently the club is already part of the International Series rotation.

For 2027, league planning anticipates at least 10 international games, with the possibility of 11 depending on how the collective bargaining agreement’s cap is applied. Under the current framework described in the source, one Jacksonville Jaguars game at Wembley Stadium does not count toward the total, which could allow an additional overseas matchup.

NFL’s long-term international target

Goodell has previously set a long-term target of reaching 16 international games in a single season. The commissioner’s stated objective signals that the league expects to keep adding markets, even if specific venues and host teams are decided years in advance.

In that context, the Patriots’ interest in Scotland fits the broader league strategy of expanding its global footprint while continuing to use established international hubs such as London and Germany. The NFL has not provided a timeline for adding Scotland, and no stadium or host city has been confirmed in official scheduling.

2026 International Series schedule listed by the source

The 2026 international slate cited in the source includes games in Melbourne (Rams vs. 49ers), Rio de Janeiro (Cowboys vs. Ravens), London (Commanders vs. Colts; Jaguars vs. Texans; Jaguars vs. Eagles), Paris (Saints vs. Steelers), Madrid (Falcons vs. Bengals), Munich (Lions vs. Patriots) and Mexico City (49ers vs. Vikings).

Any Scotland game would require league approval and scheduling clarity in a future season. The next signal to watch will be whether the NFL identifies a Scottish venue as it finalizes plans for 2027 and beyond.