The Dallas Cowboys will take part in their first international regular-season game in more than ten years, traveling to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, as part of the 2026 NFL season, the league confirmed on Thursday. While the exact date and opponent for the game are yet to be revealed, this event marks a significant return to the global stage for the franchise.
Background on Cowboys’ International Game History
The Cowboys last competed internationally in 2014, with a 31-17 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars in London. That game was the team’s first international regular-season matchup since the NFL began regularly scheduling games outside the United States in 2007. Dallas had an 11-year hiatus from international play prior to this upcoming game—the longest break among NFL teams. Historically, the Cowboys hold a 2-7-1 record in international games, most of which were preseason contests played in diverse locations such as London, Tokyo, and Mexico City.
Jerry Jones’ Perspective on the Brazil Game
Jerry Jones, the Cowboys’ owner and general manager, expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity to play in Brazil, highlighting his longstanding business connections there. Speaking from the Super Bowl, Jones said,
“I have a lot of business in Brazil,”
and added,
“I’ve had it for 35 years and the largest automobile dealership, with a partner. It would be great to have those Cowboys [fans] involved. It’s exciting.”
His comments underscored the team’s commitment to expanding its international fanbase.
NFL’s Broader International Strategy
The NFL is intensifying its focus on international games, promising nine regular-season contests worldwide in the coming season, including a December game in Mexico City. The league announced last year that it plans to host three games over the next five seasons at Rio de Janeiro’s iconic Maracanã Stadium. Over the previous two seasons, NFL games featured matchups in Brazil in São Paulo at Corinthians Arena, including Packers-Eagles in 2024 and Chiefs-Chargers in 2025.
Teams participating in international games must forfeit one home game every eight years, a circumstance that has been challenging given that Dallas is considered a strong road draw. Still, the NFL is pushing for all teams to play at least one international regular-season game each year to broaden the sport’s global reach.
Commissioner Roger Goodell’s Vision for International Expansion
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell shared his vision during the Super Bowl, stating,
“I’ve said it many times, 16 games, so that every team is playing a regular season game every season.”
He continued,
“I think that’s an important mark for us to go for. I think we’re well on our way, with the desire we have from our side, but also the desire for people to have this in their communities, and some of the greatest cities in the world are asking to do this.”
Goodell’s remarks highlight the league’s ambition to jointly grow the sport’s popularity and presence internationally.
Looking Ahead for the Cowboys and the NFL
As the Dallas Cowboys prepare to return to international play in Brazil, the game represents both an opportunity to engage a new group of fans and to continue the NFL’s broader strategy of global exposure. With Jerry Jones’ strong ties to Brazil and the league’s commitment to expanding its international footprint, this matchup is poised to be a milestone event in the 2026 NFL regular season. The announcement of the opponent and game date will further build anticipation as 2026 approaches.
The ‘Boys are Brazil bound 🇧🇷🧳 pic.twitter.com/7O3d7SNspy
— Dallas Cowboys (@dallascowboys) February 6, 2026
