The city of Rio de Janeiro and the NFL (National Football League) have signed a five-year agreement to hold regular season games of the traditional American football championship at Maracanã Stadium. Under the contract, at least three games will be held in the city during this period, starting in 2026.
Candidates to host the 2031 Pan American Games, Rio de Janeiro and Niterói breathe sport and, in addition to around 400 sporting events confirmed until the end of 2025, are strengthening their agenda with more attractions that reinforce this sport-driven DNA.
The mayor of Rio de Janeiro, Eduardo Paes, said that the partnership is historic and reinforces the city’s image as a venue for major sporting events:
“The National Football League’s five-year partnership with Rio is a perfect match. It will be a historic event with NFL games on the city’s official calendar. I am excited to see an American football game at Maracanã, the most iconic temple of world football.”