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1h ago

NFL Commits to Rio de Janeiro Games Starting in 2026 in Five-Year Deal

The move underscores a pivot toward longer city partnerships alongside evaluation of an overseas franchise.

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Sep 11, 2025; Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA; NFL commissioner Roger Goodell looks on before the game between the Washington Commanders and the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images/File photo

Overview

  • The league will stage a minimum of three regular-season games in Rio over five years, with the first set for 2026 at Maracanã Stadium and teams, date, and kickoff time to be announced later.
  • Brazil is one of the NFL’s largest international markets with more than 36 million fans, and the Rio commitment follows regular-season games in São Paulo in 2024 and 2025.
  • This season features a record seven international games, with upcoming contests in Dublin, London, Berlin and Madrid after the São Paulo opener.
  • Melbourne will host the NFL’s first regular-season game in Australia in 2026 at the MCG, with the Los Angeles Rams designated for that matchup.
  • Commissioner Roger Goodell said international markets could support an NFL team, calling a London franchise possible, while emphasizing ongoing evaluation of scheduling, travel and competitive balance.