Gridiron Nations Championship Provides Update on Mexico Discussions and 2026 Participation

VANCOUVER - The Gridiron Nations Championship (GNC) today confirmed that Mexico has declined Canada’s invitation to play a spring 2026 rematch. As a result, the GNC and FMFA have mutually elected to step away from discussions regarding participation in the 2026 GNC cycle.

The GNC Cup on display prior to the Germany-Canada game on 16 November.

The GNC wishes to be clear in recognizing that Mexico was competitive on the field during the 2025 international window. That performance was respected by all involved and reflected the continued development of the Mexican national program.

However, participation in the Gridiron Nations Championship requires more than just competitive results.

Canada, Germany, and Italy each made early, tangible investments in the GNC's startup phase, committing to shared standards, participation fees, and long-term planning to establish a sustainable intercontinental competition. These commitments included membership and fees, national team activation costs, and advance travel planning, which are fundamental to the stability of the Championship and the reliable growth of global football.

The Federación Mexicana de Futbol Americano (FMFA) ultimately chose not to agree to those participation requirements, including membership fees and appearance bonds, and as a result will not be part of the GNC’s 2026 planning cycle.

The GNC’s focus remains on building a sustainable, federation-led international competition that is fully compliant with International Federation of American Football (IFAF) standards. With Canada, Germany, and Italy as foundational participants, the GNC is confident it can meet and uphold those standards.

These standards include:

• The ability to commit to multi-year participation (minimum three-year cycle);

• Investment in national team activation, preparation, and international travel;

• Full IFAF compliance in officiating standards, athlete safety protocols, and anti-doping requirements.

The GNC has been clear from the outset that its approach is deliberate and disciplined. The competition is prepared to grow, but not at the expense of integrity, governance, or athlete welfare.

The Gridiron Nations Championship remains open to future engagement with the FMFA. With the participation criteria clearly communicated, the GNC would be prepared to enter into further discussions should FMFA determine it can meet those requirements, with any potential participation considered for 2027 or subsequent cycles.

Further announcements regarding the 2026 Gridiron Nations Championship schedule will be made in March.