The Dallas Cowboys will take part in the NFL’s inaugural regular-season game in Rio de Janeiro in 2026, marking a notable milestone as the league expands its global reach. Following recent games held in São Paulo, Brazil’s former capital will now host an NFL event for the first time, with the Cowboys confirmed as the first team to compete there, though the opponent and exact date have yet to be announced.
Details on the Venue and Team’s International History
The Cowboys will play at the Maracanã Stadium, a historic venue known for its massive soccer crowds exceeding 150,000 spectators on multiple occasions. This visit will be Dallas’s first overseas game in 12 years and only their second regular-season match played outside the United States, the first being against the Jacksonville Jaguars at London’s Wembley Stadium in 2014. Previously, Dallas’s international appearances were limited to preseason games in cities like Mexico City, Monterrey, Toronto, and Tokyo.
Upcoming Season Schedule and International Expansion
In the 2026 campaign, led by coach Brian Schottenheimer, the Dallas Cowboys’ road schedule will include matches against the Commanders, Giants, Eagles, Colts, Texans, Seahawks, Rams, and Packers. Their home games will feature the Commanders, Giants, Eagles, Cardinals, 49ers, Buccaneers, Ravens, Jaguars, and Titans. The Rio game is part of an unprecedented NFL plan featuring nine international games spread across four continents, seven countries, and eight stadiums during the season.
Other Noteworthy International Games in 2026
In addition to the Rio event, the NFL has announced the first regular-season game in Australia where the San Francisco 49ers and Los Angeles Rams, two NFC West rivals, will face off at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). The venue, which can hold around 100,000 fans, is expected to host the NFL’s season opener, potentially starting the season ahead of the traditional Labor Day schedule, with the game possibly taking place the Wednesday or Thursday before September 7.
Significance of the 2026 International NFL Games
The NFL’s strategic expansion into cities like Rio de Janeiro and Melbourne reflects its growing focus on global markets and fanbases. For the Dallas Cowboys, participating in the first Rio game highlights their status as one of the league’s most prominent franchises and provides an opportunity to connect with international audiences. This global slate of games is likely to influence the sport’s worldwide popularity and set precedence for future international schedules.
