The San Francisco 49ers’ love affair with Mexico is far from over. The NFL franchise, which last played south of the border in 2022, has made it clear: a return is on the horizon. Though there’s no official date yet, the desire within the organization is unmistakable. For the 49ers, that 2022 game in Mexico City felt like a Super Bowl.
Alfredo Gutiérrez, the Mexican offensive lineman who has been part of the 49ers since 2021, spoke exclusively to AS, shedding light on the team’s plans to head back. The proposal is already on the table, Gutiérrez confirmed, though the timeline remains uncertain.
“The proposal is there. Hopefully, we’ll return soon. I don’t know exactly when, but we are definitely going back.”
49ers’ special bond with Mexico
Gutiérrez emphasized just how strong the connection is between the franchise and its Mexican fanbase, a bond that extends from the players all the way up to the ownership.
“The 49ers are in love with Mexico, they have a unique connection,” he said. “Even the owners travel there often. The players, the staff – everyone in the organization has a special affection for the country. When we played there two or three years ago, the energy was so incredible that players said it felt like we were in the Super Bowl. Everyone is fully aware of the love and support the 49ers receive in Mexico.”
That mutual admiration continues to grow, with the 49ers regularly visiting Mexico for clinics and fan engagement events. Most recently, Gutiérrez and franchise legend Patrick Willis visited Monterrey, Nuevo León, where they spent time with local fans, further strengthening the team’s presence in the region.
A historic night at the Estadio Azteca
The 49ers’ last game in Mexico remains a memorable chapter in franchise history. In November 2022, they faced the Arizona Cardinals in a Monday Night Football showdown at a sold-out Estadio Azteca, which was drenched in the team’s iconic red and gold. The 49ers dominated, winning 38-10, but it was the atmosphere that left a lasting impression.
“It felt like a home game,” several players said afterward, describing the passionate Mexican crowd as transforming the Azteca into a sea of 49ers colors.
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