NFL's South American Debut: A New Era for Global Football
The Inaugural Rio Matchup: Cowboys vs. Ravens
For the first time in its storied history, the National Football League will stage a regular-season game in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. This landmark event, announced recently, will feature a highly anticipated clash between the Dallas Cowboys and the Baltimore Ravens.
Game Details and Venue: A September Showdown at Maracana
Scheduled for Sunday, September 27th, at 4:25 p.m. ET, the game will unfold at the renowned Maracana Stadium. This iconic 78,000-seat venue, previously a host for World Cup matches and Olympic ceremonies, is poised to welcome NFL fans. The broadcast will be available on CBS, Paramount+, and the NFL+ application.
Enthusiasm from Team Ownership: Embracing Global Fandom
Both teams have expressed immense excitement about this venture. Baltimore Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti highlighted South America's fervent sports enthusiasts, noting the significant Ravens following in Brazil. Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the special nature of playing in Maracana Stadium before a growing global fanbase.
Building on Past International Success: A Continuing Legacy
Brazil previously hosted NFL games in 2024, with Sao Paulo welcoming Week 1 matchups in 2025 and 2026. These events, including victories by the Philadelphia Eagles and Los Angeles Chargers, laid the groundwork for this continued expansion. The league estimates over 36 million NFL fans reside in Brazil, underscoring the market's potential.
An Ambitious International Schedule: Nine Games Across Four Continents
The 2026 season will witness a record nine international NFL games staged across four continents, seven countries, and eight different stadiums. Beyond Rio, cities like London, Madrid, Melbourne, Mexico City, Munich, and Paris are set to host these matchups, demonstrating the league's broad international strategy.
Further International Engagements: Expanding Reach to New Territories
Beyond Brazil, the San Francisco 49ers are slated to play the Los Angeles Rams at Melbourne Cricket Ground, marking the NFL's debut in Australia. The 49ers will also participate in a regular-season game in Mexico City. Other planned international contests include games in Paris with the New Orleans Saints, Madrid with the Atlanta Falcons, and Munich with the Detroit Lions. The Jacksonville Jaguars will host two games in London, while the Washington Commanders will serve as the host team for another game at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, further solidifying the NFL's global presence.