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2h ago

NFL Sets Five-Year Rio Program Starting 2026, First Maracanã Game Confirmed

The move advances the league’s plan to convert successful showcases into multi-year commitments in major overseas markets.

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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 NFL committed to a minimum of three regular-season games in Rio de Janeiro over five years beginning in 2026, with the first to be played at Maracanã Stadium.
  • Participating teams, the exact date, and kickoff time for the 2026 Rio game will be announced later.
  • The league estimates more than 36 million NFL fans in Brazil, and the Lions, Dolphins, Patriots and Eagles hold Brazil marketing rights under the Global Markets Program.
  • International growth will also include the NFL’s first regular-season game in Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in 2026.
  • Commissioner Roger Goodell recently called overseas markets “very, very attractive” and said a London-based team is possible as the 2025 schedule features a record seven international games across Dublin, London, Berlin and Madrid.