The Baltimore Ravens will compete against the Dallas Cowboys in the NFL’s inaugural game in Rio de Janeiro on September 27, as announced by the league on Friday during the draft.
This historic matchup will take place at Maracanã Stadium and will be broadcasted in the late afternoon on CBS and Paramount+.
Significance of the Game
Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti expressed pride in the team’s selection for this landmark event, stating, “We are honored to be chosen for the NFL’s first-ever game in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The international expansion of our great game has been remarkable.” He emphasized the passion of South American sports fans, particularly the Ravens Flock in Brazil.
Cowboys’ Perspective
The Dallas Cowboys had already been confirmed as participants in the game. Cowboys owner and general manager Jerry Jones remarked, “Playing in the legendary Maracanã Stadium against the Ravens in front of such a passionate and growing fan base on a global stage will be very special for our team, our entire Cowboys organization and the millions watching back home and around the world.”
Future NFL Games in Brazil
The NFL has committed to hosting at least three regular-season games in Rio de Janeiro over the next five years. Previously, the league held two games in Brazil, with matchups in São Paulo in 2024 and 2025, but this will mark its first game in Rio.
The 2026 matchup in Rio is part of a record nine international games scheduled for the upcoming season, spanning four continents, seven countries, and eight stadiums.
International Game Locations
In addition to the game in Rio, the NFL will host three games in London, including two at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and one at Wembley Stadium. Other international venues include Madrid’s Bernabéu Stadium, Melbourne’s Cricket Ground, Mexico City’s Estadio Banorte, Munich’s FC Bayern Munich Stadium, and Paris’ Stade de France.