The NFL is bringing its global expansion to Spain in a big way. On Sunday, November 8, 2026, the Santiago Bernabéu in Madrid will host the league's first regular-season game on Spanish soil, with the Cincinnati Bengals taking on the Atlanta Falcons. And the halftime show will be headlined by none other than Colombian superstar Manuel Turizo.
Turizo, known for hits like "La Bachata" and "El Merengue," as well as tracks from his fifth studio album Apambichao, has become one of the most streamed Latin artists in the world. His performance at the Bernabéu is set to be a landmark moment, merging the intensity of American football with the rhythm and passion of Latin music.
A Record-Breaking International Slate
Turizo's Madrid show is part of the NFL's most ambitious international campaign yet. The league has announced seven halftime shows across four continents, all presented by American Express. Beyond Madrid, the series will hit Melbourne, Rio de Janeiro, London, Paris, Munich, and Mexico City. This unprecedented lineup underscores the NFL's commitment to making its global games feel like cultural celebrations, not just sporting events.
For fans in Spain, the entire halftime performance will be broadcast live on DAZN, Cuatro, and Mediaset Infinity, ensuring that the moment reaches as wide an audience as possible.
Turizo himself expressed his excitement about the upcoming show, promising a memorable experience packed with surprises. "I can't wait to bring my music to the Bernabéu," he said in a statement. "This is going to be a celebration of football and Latin culture, and I'm going to give it everything I've got."
Expanding the NFL's Footprint in Europe
Hosting a regular-season game in Spain is a clear signal of the NFL's long-term commitment to growing the sport across continental Europe. By pairing top-tier athletic competition with culturally resonant entertainment, the league aims to create immersive experiences that attract diverse audiences. Madrid, with its rich sports culture and passionate fan base, is an ideal host city.
This move also builds on the growing popularity of American football in Spain, where the sport has seen a steady rise in viewership and participation. The choice of the Bernabéu, one of the most iconic stadiums in the world, adds to the spectacle.
For Latino fans, this event is particularly meaningful. It's a recognition of the influence and reach of Latin music on the global stage. Turizo's performance is not just an halftime show; it's a statement about the cultural bridges being built through sports and entertainment.
As the NFL continues to expand its international footprint, events like this one are likely to become more common. The league has already seen success with games in Mexico City and London, and the Madrid game is expected to be a highlight of the 2026 season.
For those who can't make it to Madrid, the broadcast will ensure that the moment is shared across the globe. And for those who are there, it promises to be an unforgettable afternoon of football and music.
In the meantime, fans can look forward to more Latin artists taking the stage at NFL events, as the league continues to embrace the cultural diversity of its global audience. The future of sports entertainment is looking more vibrant and more Latin than ever.
