Texans to face Raiders in Mexico City on Nov. 21

HOUSTON – The Texans will play the Raiders in a regular season matchup in Mexico City on Nov. 21 during the upcoming season.

The game will be televised live on ESPN, marking the first Monday Night Football game to be played outside the United States.

"It's an honor and privilege to represent the NFL in Mexico City next season," Texans Executive Vice President of Football Operations and General Manager Rick Smith said. "This will be a tremendous opportunity to showcase the Houston Texans on an international stage for the first time in franchise history. We look forward to playing in a great atmosphere at Azteca Stadium."

The NFL played its first international regular-season game on in 2005 when a crowd of 103,467 saw the Cardinals defeat the 49ers 31-14 in Mexico City.

“Expanding our International Series of regular-season games to Mexico marks an important step in our continued international growth,” said NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell.  “We have a tremendous, passionate fan base in Mexico and we know the atmosphere on game day will be outstanding.”  

The Raiders, who are currently looking for a new home due to bad relationships in Oakland, are also excited to venture out of the country for a game.

The Raiders are honored to once again represent the National Football League in its International Series,” said Raiders Owner Mark Davis. “The Raiders are truly a global brand and we look forward to visiting the loyal and passionate members of the Raider Nation in Mexico City.”

Mexico City is excited to host another NFL game.

“Mexico is honored to be selected by the NFL to host a regular season game,“ said Mexico’s Minister of Tourism, Enrique De La Madrid Cordero. “Our country has been host to numerous high-profile international events including Formula One and we look forward to leveraging the popularity of the NFL in the US and international markets to showcase Mexico’s incredible tourism offering.”