The start of the NFL season always brings excitement, and this year is no different for Minnesota Vikings fans. The 2025-2026 Vikings schedule is now live, promising thrilling matchups, historic international games, and the beginning of a new era for the franchise.

2025-2026 Vikings Schedule Overview

The Vikings begin their campaign with a much-anticipated road game against their NFC North rival, the Chicago Bears, on September 8. This season offers much to look forward to, including eight home games, seven away games in the United States, and two unique international contests. Second-year quarterback J.J. McCarthy will step into the spotlight as the new leader for the Vikings after missing his entire rookie season. Fans are eager to see how his presence shapes the team’s offense.

For those seeking a breakdown of every matchup, CBS Minnesota provides a detailed week-by-week rundown of the entire Vikings schedule. Here’s a quick glance at some key dates:

• Sept. 8: at Chicago Bears (season opener)
• Oct. 19: vs Philadelphia Eagles (home game)
• Nov. 2: at Detroit Lions
• Nov. 15: vs Chicago Bears
• Nov. 23: at Green Bay Packers
• Dec. 25: vs Detroit Lions (Christmas Day game)
• TBD: vs Green Bay Packers (final regular season game)

The upcoming season is pivotal for the team, especially after last year’s promising 14-3 record.

International Showdowns: Vikings Make History

A special highlight of the 2025-2026 Vikings schedule is the inclusion of two international appearances. Minnesota will be part of NFL history by playing in two different countries on back-to-back weeks. On September 28, the team travels to Dublin’s Croke Park for its first-ever regular season game in Ireland against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Just a week later, they’ll compete in London at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, facing the Cleveland Browns.

The Vikings organization and head coach Kevin O'Connell both recognize the special nature of these matchups. These games extend the team’s global reach and offer unique experiences for fans and players alike. Learn more about the Vikings’ international schedule and the significance of the Dublin and London games on Vikings.com.

Season Highlights & Key Matchups

The 2025 slate boasts several highly anticipated games beyond the international fixtures. The home opener against the Atlanta Falcons on September 14 and the mid-October battle with the defending champion Philadelphia Eagles are both must-watch. The Vikings will also host a Christmas Day showdown against Detroit, marking only the third time the franchise has played on the holiday.

Monday Night Football will be a highlight as well. The Vikings face the Bears in Chicago in an exciting kickoff to the season under the bright lights of prime time. For more NFL schedule highlights and how they impact the Vikings, check out ESPN’s full analysis of the Monday Night Football slate.

What Vikings Fans Should Expect This Season

With J.J. McCarthy at quarterback and a solid roster on both sides of the ball, expectations are once again high. The challenges of international travel and tough divisional matchups will put the Vikings to the test. Yet, the team’s experience and fan support, both at home and abroad, could give them the edge in close contests.

For full details, updates, and related news, fans should follow the latest announcements from Vikings.com.

Conclusion

The 2025-2026 Vikings schedule is packed with excitement, history-making games, and all the drama NFL fans crave. Whether you’re planning to catch a game at U.S. Bank Stadium or tune in from afar, this season promises action at every turn. Be sure to mark your calendars and stay up to date on all things Vikings as the new era begins.