The NFL made headlines last year with its first game in Brazil, featuring the Philadelphia Eagles and Green Bay Packers in a thrilling matchup held in São Paulo. This event marked a significant expansion of the league’s global footprint. Following the success of this inaugural game, another NFL game is scheduled to take place at the Corinthians Arena in São Paulo in 2025, featuring the Los Angeles Chargers. However, the excitement does not stop there, as Rio de Janeiro is now in the mix for hosting an NFL game as early as 2026.
Eduardo Paes, the mayor of Rio de Janeiro, recently disclosed that he had discussions with NFL representatives about potentially bringing a game to his city. “We were talking in a meeting with the NFL guys... I’ve already pulled some strings to have it here in Rio in 2026,” Paes mentioned during an event, as reported by CNN Brazil. Although he acknowledged his limited interest in football, his desire to bring the NFL to Rio showcases the city’s aspirations to host major sporting events.
Paes revealed that this information was not originally intended to be public but felt compelled to share it nonetheless. The possibility of hosting an NFL game in Rio opens the door for the league to expand its reach in Brazil, potentially leading to two games in the country during the same season—one in Rio and one in São Paulo. He emphasized Rio's appeal by stating, “Rio is a desirable, sexy city where people want to be.”
The NFL has expressed enthusiasm about its venture into Brazil and noted positive feedback from fans and stakeholders. Luis Martinez, NFL Brazil's general manager, stated, “After a successful and memorable first game in Brazil in 2024, we are delighted to confirm the league's return to São Paulo with the Los Angeles Chargers as the designated team in what will be an incredible next chapter in the market.” Martinez continued to highlight the collaboration with local partners, including SPTuris and Mayor Ricardo Nunes, in creating memorable experiences for Brazilian fans.
Should the NFL game take place in Rio, it will likely occur at the iconic Maracanã stadium, a venue famed for its rich history in football and other sporting events. The stadium has a capacity of 73,000 and has previously hosted the FIFA World Cup finals in 1950 and 2014, further solidifying its status as one of the world’s premier sports venues.
In line with its plans for future games, the NFL conducted an inspection of Maracanã in 2023 before ultimately selecting the Corinthians Arena for the upcoming 2024 and 2025 games. The league took note of Rio's stunning scenery while promoting the São Paulo game, showcasing breathtaking images of the city’s beaches, the Christ the Redeemer statue, and the famous Pão de Açúcar Mountain.
As the NFL embraces the Brazilian market, the prospect of a Rio game places significant highlights on how global sports leagues are increasingly seeking to expand their influence beyond traditional markets. Emphasizing local culture and engagement, the NFL’s strategy in Brazil underscores the importance of tailoring sporting events to resonate with regional audiences.
With the excitement in the air for the upcoming Los Angeles Chargers game, as well as the anticipation for a potential future game in Rio, the NFL aims to create a lasting impact in Brazil. Sports enthusiasts eagerly await further developments regarding the league’s plans for possible doubleheaders in the country and the return of the American football spectacle that many fans have come to love.
