In the NFL, the schedule isn’t just a list of games—it’s a strategic puzzle. And before the league finalizes it, teams have a rare opportunity to influence the outcome.

The Kansas City Chiefs are taking full advantage of that window.

According to team president Mark Donovan, the Chiefs have made two things very clear for the 2026 season: they want Spain, and they want Christmas.

Let’s start with the international ambition.

The NFL is expanding its global footprint, and Spain is the next major frontier. With plans to host games in Madrid as part of a multi-year initiative, the league is looking for the right teams to showcase the sport on one of the world’s biggest stages.

Kansas City wants in.

Specifically, they are pushing to be the visiting team when the Atlanta Falcons host a game at the iconic Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. This isn’t just a random preference—it’s a calculated move.

The Chiefs already hold international marketing rights in Spain, giving them a built-in connection to the market. From a business standpoint, it’s a perfect fit. From a football standpoint, it’s even better.

Because the Chiefs bring something the NFL values above almost everything else: global appeal.

With Patrick Mahomes leading the way, Kansas City has become one of the league’s most recognizable brands. Their recent history of international appearances—in places like Mexico, Germany, and Brazil—has only strengthened that reputation.

They’re not just participating in the NFL’s global expansion—they’re driving it.

But the Spain game is far from guaranteed.

The Chicago Bears also hold marketing rights in Spain, and the Cincinnati Bengals have emerged as a potential wildcard. The NFL must balance competitive matchups, market strategy, and logistical considerations when selecting teams.

In other words, this is a negotiation—not a promise.

Still, Kansas City’s case is strong.

They’re already scheduled to play on the road in Atlanta, which simplifies scheduling. They have the star power to draw international audiences. And they’ve proven they can deliver in these spotlight games.

If the NFL wants a marquee matchup in Madrid, the Chiefs are hard to ignore.

Now, let’s shift to the second request: Christmas.

For most teams, playing on a holiday can be complicated. Short weeks, travel challenges, and disrupted routines make it less than ideal. But the Chiefs see it differently.

They want the spotlight.

Kansas City has played on Christmas three consecutive years and is actively pushing to make it four—preferably at Arrowhead. With three games scheduled for the holiday in 2026, the league will need six teams. And not every franchise will be eager to participate.

That’s where the Chiefs stand out.

They embrace the moment.

From a league perspective, it makes sense. The Chiefs consistently deliver high ratings, exciting games, and must-watch performances. Mahomes, in particular, has become synonymous with big stages. Whether it’s primetime, playoffs, or international games, he thrives under pressure.

Putting Kansas City on Christmas isn’t just a scheduling decision—it’s a ratings strategy.

And unlike the Spain game, this request feels much more realistic.

Of course, not everything is on the table.

One scenario that appears unlikely is a Week 1 opener in Seattle against the Seattle Seahawks. With Mahomes recovering from an ACL injury, there’s uncertainty surrounding his readiness for the start of the season. The NFL typically avoids placing teams in high-profile opening games without clarity on their biggest stars.

It’s a reminder that even for a team like Kansas City, not every spotlight is guaranteed.

As the league works toward finalizing the full 2026 schedule—expected in May—these requests will be weighed alongside dozens of others. Competitive balance, travel logistics, broadcast considerations, and player health all factor into the final decisions.

But one thing is certain: the Chiefs have made their priorities known.

They want to represent the NFL on a global stage in Spain. They want to own the holiday spotlight on Christmas. And they want to continue being the face of the league’s biggest moments.

For fans, it’s a win either way.

A game in Madrid would showcase the Chiefs to a global audience, creating a unique and historic experience. A Christmas game at Arrowhead would deliver the kind of electric atmosphere that has become a Kansas City trademark.

Two very different stages—both equally compelling.

And as the anticipation builds, one question remains:

If you had to choose, would you rather see the Chiefs take over Spain—or light up Christmas Day at Arrowhead?