NFL Rio 2026: Everything to know about Cowboys vs Ravens at Maracanã

NFL Rio 2026 will bring the Dallas Cowboys and Baltimore Ravens to Maracanã Stadium on 27 September. The Week 3 matchup will mark the first NFL regular-season game in Rio de Janeiro, with the Cowboys serving as the home team as the league continues to expand in Brazil.

NFL Rio 2026 key details

The Baltimore Ravens will face the Dallas Cowboys at Maracanã Stadium on Sunday, 27 September 2026. Kickoff is scheduled for 4:25 PM Eastern Time, which is 5:25 PM in Rio de Janeiro. The game will take place during Week 3 of the regular season.

See more: NFL International Games

Why the NFL Rio game is historic

NFL Rio 2026 will be the league’s first regular-season game in Rio de Janeiro and its first at Maracanã Stadium. The event follows two previous regular-season games in São Paulo, establishing Rio as the NFL’s second host city in Brazil.

It also forms part of a record nine international games in 2026 and begins a five-year commitment to host at least three games in the city.

The multi-year agreement reflects the league’s long-term plans for the city rather than treating the 2026 matchup as a one-off event. The NFL has committed to staging at least three games in Rio over five years, beginning with Cowboys vs Ravens.

The Dallas Cowboys return to the international stage

NFL Rio 2026 will mark the Cowboys’ first regular-season appearance outside the United States since 2014. Dallas defeated the Jacksonville Jaguars 31–17 at Wembley Stadium during that earlier trip, giving the team a 1–0 record in international regular-season games.

The Cowboys will be the designated home team at Maracanã. Their participation brings one of the NFL’s most widely recognised franchises to a new international market and will draw considerable attention to the league’s first Rio fixture.

Key Dallas storylines include:

• The team’s return to international competition after 12 years.
• Its first regular-season appearance in South America.
• Its role as the designated home team.
• A potential quarterback matchup between Dak Prescott and Lamar Jackson, subject to player availability.

The Dallas Cowboys return to the international stage.

The Baltimore Ravens prepare for their Rio debut

The Ravens will make their third regular-season international appearance and their first outside London. Baltimore faced the Jacksonville Jaguars at Wembley in 2017 before returning to London and defeating the Tennessee Titans in 2023.

Rio will introduce the franchise to a new country, continent, and audience. The game will also give Brazilian fans an opportunity to watch a team known for its physical defence, mobile offensive style, and the dynamic play of quarterback Lamar Jackson.

The Ravens’ main international milestones are:

• First international appearance: London in 2017.
• Second international appearance: London in 2023.
• First game in Brazil: Rio de Janeiro in 2026.
• First international matchup against the Dallas Cowboys.

The Baltimore Ravens prepare for their Rio debut.

What makes Maracanã a unique NFL venue

Maracanã is closely associated with the history of Brazilian and international football. The stadium has staged two FIFA World Cup finals, major Brazilian club matches, ceremonies connected to the Rio 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games, and concerts by global artists.

Transforming the venue for an NFL game will create a distinctive sporting experience. The field configuration, branding, entertainment, and match-day production will introduce American football to a stadium traditionally associated with Brazilian football.

NFL game at Maracanã Stadium

NFL Rio 2026 tickets and hospitality

General admission options for NFL Rio 2026 are currently on sale. Demand is expected to be high, as the game combines a debut destination, a historic stadium, and two prominent teams.

Premium seating

Watch NFL Rio 2026 from selected reserved sections within Maracanã Stadium. NFL Rio ticket options may vary according to availability, stadium configuration, and package type:

• Reserved premium seating
• Central, sideline, corner, or end-zone locations
• Priority entry where included

Hospitality packages

NFL Rio hospitality options may combine:

• Premium stadium seating
• Access to hospitality lounge area
• Premium dining and refreshment options
• Dedicated guest assistance

Private suites and tailored experiences

Private suites and tailored arrangements are suited to guests seeking additional privacy, comfort, and flexibility for corporate hosting, family trips, or groups of friends.

• Private suites or exclusive entertaining areas
• Premium views of the field
• High-quality catering and beverage service
• Luxury hotel arrangements
• Private transfers
• Personalised travel and concierge support

Premium experiences may vary considerably in their seating locations, services, and inclusions. Contact MA Hospitality Group to discuss tailored requirements.

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Planning an NFL weekend in Rio de Janeiro

Travelling for NFL Rio 2026 creates an opportunity to combine the game with a longer stay in Rio de Janeiro. Arriving at least one or two days before kickoff allows more time for airport transfers, hotel check-in, and unexpected itinerary changes.

A tailored weekend may include luxury accommodation, pre-arranged match-day transport, restaurant and nightlife reservations, private city tours, and beach or coastal experiences.

Transport planning will be particularly important on match day. Large crowds and potential road restrictions around Maracanã may affect journey times, so guests should avoid relying on last-minute travel arrangements.

Final tips for attending NFL Rio 2026

Before travelling, check Brazil’s entry requirements, review stadium policies, confirm access delivery, arrange transport, and monitor official updates.

NFL Rio 2026 will place the Cowboys and Ravens at the centre of a historic weekend for American football in Brazil. With Maracanã hosting its first NFL regular-season game, the event is expected to become one of the standout international fixtures of the season.

MA Hospitality Group has experience supporting guests attending prestigious sporting and entertainment events worldwide, with personalised travel and concierge services.

Contact us to discuss your NFL Rio 2026 experience!

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