In a surprising move, the Michigan Wolverines have announced on X that for the first time ever, the team will hold its season opener in another country. To be specific, the team is planning to play its first game of the year in Frankfurt, Germany, against Western Michigan. Talks are still ongoing, but should it push through, the game might happen at Deutsche Bank Park.
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We are engaged in ongoing discussions to kick off the 2026 season on foreign soil, playing host to Western Michigan at Deutsche Bank Park in Frankfurt, Hesse, Germany, on Saturday, Aug. 29. This non-conference matchup would become the first game played by the Wolverines… pic.twitter.com/V4j6TZAYHc
— Michigan Football (@UMichFootball) July 25, 2025
While the move may have been seen as a good way to promote American football to other countries, such as Germany, many fans did not see it this way and blasted the idea all over social media.
“That’s the dumbest idea I’ve ever heard of. Why would you take the loss in revenue? What is the point? I guarantee you. I’m not gonna fly all the way to Germany to watch them play Western Michigan. While you’re gonna get out of, this is less money and a tired football team,” one person pointed out.
“Huge disappointment. We’re basically giving away a home game,” another person noted.
“Playing an in state opponent in Europe? Why???” asked another commenter.
However, not all were negative comments, as others were quite supportive of the idea.
“This is a cool idea! Idk why fans are so salty about it. Just don’t lose like Florida State did 😂” one person said.
“Shouldn’t be a problem. You won’t likely be banned from regular season games.” added another commenter.
“Imagine having a globally recognized collegiate brand and being mad about it. 🤦🏻♀️ Geh Blau!!!” one fan pointed out.
Discussions Over Michigan vs. Western Michigan Game in Germany Already in ‘Advanced’ Stage
While the game is not final yet, Warde Manuel, the Donald R. Shepherd Director of Athletics, spoke to the Michigan Wolverines Football official website and revealed that this may become official very soon.
“We are in advanced discussions to create this first-of-its-kind opportunity for our student-athletes and fans,” he said. “The University of Michigan is one of the few worldwide brands in college athletics and the interest in playing an international game would be unique. This would be a great opportunity to teach ‘Go Blue’ to a new group of fans in Germany.”
This would be the first time that Michigan would play its opener in another country, though the program has already visited and played in other countries, including Italy, France and South Africa.
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