The NFL is heading back to Brazil, and this time it’s opening the season with a bang. The Kansas City Chiefs and Los Angeles Chargers will square off in São Paulo in Week 1, marking not only a key AFC West showdown but also a historic moment for the league’s international expansion.
For the first time ever, fans worldwide can watch a regular-season game for free on YouTube, while NFL action spreads to new markets across five countries.
Why Did the NFL Choose Brazil for the Season Opener?
While the NFL has been incredibly popular in the United States for many years, the league has made a clear push in recent years to expand its global reach. That effort has transformed the International Series from a rare spectacle into a regular and highly anticipated part of the schedule.
The 2025 season takes that momentum to new heights, with a record seven regular-season games set to be played overseas. For the first time ever, fans in Madrid, Berlin, and Dublin will get to experience NFL action live, marking another milestone in the league’s international growth.
Kicking things off is Brazil, which will host the season’s very first international matchup. The stage is set for an AFC West showdown between the Kansas City Chiefs and Los Angeles Chargers, with the game available to fans worldwide through a free YouTube livestream.
It marks the first time in NFL history that a regular-season game will be broadcast globally on YouTube at no cost, marking yet another bold step in the league’s push for global reach.
Kansas City is coming off a heartbreaking Super Bowl loss and will be eager to reset its campaign with a statement victory. Meanwhile, rejuvenated in Year 2 under Jim Harbaugh, the Chargers will be out to prove they’re ready to challenge their longtime rivals for the division crown, setting up for an exciting clash.
What Does the Complete 2025 International Series Schedule Look Like?
Following the Week 1 action between the Chiefs and Chargers, the 2025 International Series will get to witness the Minnesota Vikings in action against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Here’s a look at the complete schedule:
Friday, September 5 | Week 1
Kansas City Chiefs vs. Los Angeles Chargers, 8:00 p.m. ET, YouTube (Brazil)
Sunday, September 28 | Week 4
Minnesota Vikings vs. Pittsburgh Steelers, 9:30 a.m. ET, NFL Network (Ireland)
Sunday, October 5 | Week 5
Minnesota Vikings vs. Cleveland Browns, 9:30 a.m. ET, NFL Network (U.K.)
Sunday, October 12 | Week 6
Denver Broncos vs. New York Jets, 9:30 a.m. ET, NFL Network (U.K.)
Sunday, October 19 | Week 7
Los Angeles Rams vs. Jacksonville Jaguars, 9:30 a.m. ET, NFL Network (U.K.)
Sunday, November 9 | Week 10
Atlanta Falcons vs. Indianapolis Colts, 9:30 a.m. ET, NFL Network (Germany)
Sunday, November 16 | Week 11
Washington Commanders vs. Miami Dolphins, 9:30 a.m. ET, NFL Network (Spain)