The Dallas Cowboys will play their first international game in over a decade, traveling to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, for a 2026 regular season matchup, the NFL announced Thursday. The date and opponent for the game have not yet been determined.
A Return to International Play
This marks the Cowboys’ first international game since a 31-17 victory against the Jacksonville Jaguars in London in 2014. That game was also the franchise’s first regular season game played outside of the United States, beginning in 2007. Dallas had the longest stretch of not playing internationally, at 11 years.
Expanding the NFL’s Global Reach
The game in Rio is part of a broader NFL initiative to expand its international presence. The league has committed to playing three regular-season games in Rio de Janeiro’s Maracanã Stadium over the next five seasons. NFL teams have already played in Brazil the last two seasons, with games held in Sao Paulo in 2024, and 2025.
The NFL plans to play a total of nine international games in the 2026 season, including a contest in Mexico City in December. The league’s ultimate goal is to have every team play internationally at least once per year.
Jones’ Connection to Brazil
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones expressed enthusiasm for the game, noting his long-standing business interests in Brazil. “I have a lot of business in Brazil,” Jones said. “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.” Jones had previously expressed a preference for a game in Mexico City, citing the franchise’s strong fanbase there.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the date and opponent for the Cowboys’ game in Rio be announced?
The date and opponent for the game will be announced at a later date.
How long has it been since the Cowboys last played an international game?
The Cowboys last played an international game in 2014, a regular season game against the Jacksonville Jaguars in London.
What is the NFL’s long-term plan for international games?
The NFL has committed to playing three regular-season games in Rio de Janeiro over the next five seasons and aims to have every team play internationally at least once a year.
As the NFL continues to expand its global footprint, what impact will these international games have on the league’s future?
