At the 2026 NFL Honors event held at San Francisco‘s Palace of Fine Arts, the Dallas Cowboys announced they will compete in a game in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. This marks the team’s first international appearance since 2014 and the first NFL matchup ever scheduled in Rio.
Significance of the Brazil Matchup for the Cowboys
For Cowboys owner and general manager Jerry Jones, this game presents an opportunity to expand the team’s presence and engage with fans in a new region. The match in Brazil symbolizes both a business and cultural connection for Jones, who expressed pride in taking the Cowboys to this vibrant country.
Jerry Jones Shares Enthusiasm for the International Game
“I look to where our fans are,”
Jones remarked about the motivation behind the Brazil game.
“I’m excited about the Cowboys fans that we have in Brazil. I’m excited about the country of Brazil. I have a lot of business in Brazil. I have a lot of respect [for Brazil], and to be able to take our team, take the Cowboys down there and be a part of their sports is a big deal.”
– Jerry Jones, Cowboys Owner/GM
Looking Ahead to the Impact of the 2026 Brazil Game
This international appearance could foster stronger ties between the Cowboys and their Brazilian supporters, while helping the NFL broaden its global reach. The Rio game is likely to generate excitement within both the local fanbase and the wider football community, highlighting the sport’s growing international appeal.
