NFL International Game Streaming & Blackout Rules

NFL international games—such as those held in London, Mexico City, or Dublin—are broadcast globally via several authorized channels and streaming platforms.

• NFL Network: The primary U.S. cable channel often carries international series games live, including a comprehensive pregame show.
• NFL+ Streaming Service: The league’s official digital platform offers live access to games, including all primetime and international fixtures, available worldwide except in local blackout areas.
• Local Broadcasters: Countries hosting games usually have exclusive rights for domestic broadcasts. For example, Sky Sports in the UK, DAZN in parts of Europe, or Virgin Media in Ireland carry the games live.
• Third-party Streaming Providers: Services like FuboTV, DirecTV Stream, and Sling TV offer access to NFL Network and other broadcast partners with included free trials in many regions.

Fans can watch live on multiple device types—smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and desktop browsers—through these official apps and websites.

Blackout policies were initially designed to promote stadium attendance by restricting broadcasts in the local market when tickets are not sold out. Though these policies were strict from the 1970s until their suspension starting in 2015, some blackout principles remain active, particularly concerning streaming and cable rights.

Key Blackout Guidelines Include:

• Local Market Blackouts: Games may be blacked out on TV and cable within a 75-mile radius of the home stadium if ticket sales are below designated thresholds. However, for recent seasons, the league has either suspended or waived these rules in many cases.
• Anti-Siphoning Rule: NFL syndicates cable and streaming rights in local markets to over-the-air broadcasters to ensure games can be watched free locally when possible.
• Streaming Blackouts: Streaming through NFL apps or mobile devices sometimes uses geolocation to restrict access in home markets to protect broadcast rights.
• International Game Exceptions: Blackout rules typically do not apply abroad, allowing full international streaming and broadcast access to NFL International Series games.
• VPN Use: While VPNs can bypass blackout restrictions by masking IP addresses, this practice is not endorsed by the NFL and may violate terms of service for streaming providers.

In essence, viewers outside the home team’s local market (including international viewers) should have unfettered access to streams, while local fans should check their broadcasters for availability and possible blackout conditions.