Miami Dolphins to Make History with First NFL Regular Season Game in Spain 2025
The Miami Dolphins are set to make history as the designated team for the NFL’s first-ever regular-season game in Spain. Scheduled for 2025, the groundbreaking matchup will take place at the iconic Bernabéu Stadium in Madrid, home to the legendary Spanish soccer club Real Madrid C.F. This historic event, organized in partnership with Madrid’s local government, underscores the NFL’s commitment to expanding its global footprint and engaging with fans worldwide.
“We are thrilled to play the NFL’s inaugural game in Spain, a country of rich history, tradition, and passion, and home to a vibrant Dolphins fanbase,” said Tom Garfinkel, Miami Dolphins Vice Chairman, President, and CEO. “There is a hunger for football in this market, and we are proud to join with the NFL in growing the game internationally while engaging with old and new fans alike. With the unique synergy between Miami and Madrid, we believe this is only the beginning for us in this incredible region.”
This marks the Dolphins’ eighth regular-season international game and their fourth in a new country. The team has previously played in Germany (2023), the United Kingdom (2021, 2017, 2015, 2014, 2007), and Canada (2008). Through these events, the Dolphins have consistently prioritized fan engagement, fostering excitement for the sport and introducing the NFL’s high-energy brand of football to global audiences.
As part of the NFL’s Global Markets Program (GMP), the Dolphins were granted marketing rights in Spain in December 2021, alongside Brazil and the United Kingdom. Over the past few years, the team has cultivated a strong presence in Spain through watch parties, alumni appearances, and Spanish-language content. In 2024, the Dolphins expanded their GMP reach to include Argentina, Colombia, and Mexico, making them the NFL team with the most marketing rights in Spanish-speaking countries. They are also one of only two teams actively engaging in six global markets.
The Dolphins’ international efforts include hosting the first-ever flag football clinic in Brazil in July 2024, organizing fan clubs and watch parties in Spain, Brazil, the UK, and Mexico, and collaborating with global sports icons like Felipe Luís and stars from top soccer clubs such as Real Madrid, FC Barcelona, and Atlético Madrid. The team has also partnered with the cast of the Emmy Award-winning series Ted Lasso. Through these initiatives, the Dolphins have played a pivotal role in advancing the NFL’s global growth and building a worldwide community of fans.
The Dolphins’ opponent, game date, and kickoff time for the 2025 Madrid game will be announced when the full NFL schedule is released later this spring. Fans can register for updates at nfl.com/madrid. Additionally, On Location, the Official Hospitality Provider of the NFL and the Miami Dolphins, has launched a Priority Access deposit program for the event. Packages include roundtrip airfare, guided tours, premium seating options, and exclusive experiences. Fans can visit onlocationexp.com/dolphinsspain to secure their spot and guarantee first choice of tickets and bespoke experiences.
The Miami Dolphins’ selection as the NFL’s first team to play a regular-season game in Spain marks a monumental step in the league’s global expansion strategy. By bringing the excitement of professional American football to Madrid’s iconic Bernabéu Stadium, the NFL not only highlights its dedication to growing the sport internationally but also honors Spain’s rich cultural heritage and fervent sports culture. This historic event, set for 2025, is a testament to the growing popularity of American football in Europe and the Miami Dolphins’ role as ambassadors of the game. As the Dolphins prepare to take the field in Spain, they carry with them the enthusiasm of their global fanbase and the promise of uniting diverse communities through the power of sports. This groundbreaking game is poised to leave a lasting legacy, paving the way for future opportunities to celebrate football on the world stage.
The Miami Dolphins’ historic 2025 regular-season game in Spain represents more than just a milestone for the franchise—it symbolizes the NFL’s bold vision for global growth and cultural exchange. By bringing America’s most popular sport to the heart of Madrid at the storied Bernabéu Stadium,the Dolphins are not onyl expanding their own legacy but also bridging the gap between diverse fanbases and traditions. This groundbreaking event highlights the team’s dedication to fostering international connections, as well as the NFL’s commitment to making football a truly global phenomenon.
As Vice Chairman, President, and CEO Tom Garfinkel aptly noted, the synergy between Miami and Madrid exemplifies the perfect blend of culture, passion, and innovation.With Spain’s vibrant sports culture and the Dolphins’ proven track record of engaging global audiences, this game is poised to be a transformative moment for both the team and the league.It’s not just about a single matchup—it’s about planting the seeds for a lasting relationship with fans in Spain and beyond.
As the Dolphins prepare to take the field in 2025, they carry with them the spirit of progress and the promise of a brighter, more connected future for the NFL. This historic game in Madrid is not just a destination—it’s the beginning of an exciting new chapter in the global story of football.
