NFL Rio Game 2026: Here's Where to Watch the Baltimore Ravens vs. Dallas Cowboys Game Live Online

The Baltimore Ravens and Dallas Cowboys are not just battling for points in the NFL; they are competing for a global audience that has never seen an American football showdown in Rio de Janeiro before. On September 27, 2026, the Maracanã Stadium will host the league’s first‑ever Rio Game, a moment that could redefine how the sport is perceived in Latin America and beyond. The stakes are high for the teams, the NFL, and the local economy, all of whom stand to benefit from a successful, high‑profile event.

The NFL has already played in São Paulo, but this move to Rio signals a deliberate push into the heart of Brazil’s football‑loving culture. By selecting the iconic Maracanã, the league is tapping into a venue steeped in sporting history, hoping to draw parallels between American and Brazilian football passions. The game will feature the Ravens (1‑1) against the Cowboys (1‑1), a matchup that promises competitive drama and a chance to showcase the league’s marquee franchises to a fresh market.

For viewers who prefer digital platforms, the broadcast is available on CBS Online and can be streamed via DirecTV, Fubo, Hulu + Live TV, and Paramount+. The game is scheduled to kick off at 4:25 p.m. ET / 1:25 p.m. PT. Those without cable can take advantage of free trials: DirecTV offers a five‑day trial, while Fubo and Hulu + Live TV also provide complimentary access periods. This strategy lowers the barrier to entry for international fans and cord‑cutters alike, potentially boosting viewership numbers in a region where streaming is rapidly gaining traction.

Beyond the gridiron, the event is slated to feature a halftime performance by Pedro Sampaio and Ricky Martin, adding a Latin pop flair that could attract non‑football audiences. The presence of Brazilian NFL fans and celebrities such as Anitta, Luísa Sonza, and Neymar Jr. is anticipated, turning the game into a cultural festival. The NFL’s history of celebrity sightingsactors, musicians, and athleteshas proven to amplify media coverage, and this edition is no exception.

The choice of Rio de Janeiro as a venue carries significant economic implications. Local businesses, from hospitality to retail, stand to benefit from the influx of tourists and media crews. Moreover, the NFL’s continued presence in international cities like London, Mexico City, Melbourne, Berlin, and Dublin indicates a clear strategy: embed the sport within global sporting calendars. If the Rio Game succeeds, it could pave the way for more frequent fixtures in South America, potentially leading to a permanent international franchise or a dedicated Latin American division.

Given the NFL’s track record in overseas markets, I predict that the 2026 Rio Game will achieve a viewership milestone, surpassing previous international broadcasts. The combination of high‑profile teams, a marquee venue, and a culturally resonant halftime show positions the event as a template for future global expansions.

Looking ahead, the NFL’s ambition to embed itself in Brazil may herald a new era where American football becomes a staple in Latin American sporting culture, much like soccer once was. If the league can sustain fan engagement post‑game, we may see a shift in the NFL’s revenue streams, with increased merchandise sales, sponsorship deals, and perhaps even a dedicated Brazilian fan club. The next season could see the Ravens and Cowboys returning to Brazil, this time with a built‑in local fan base ready to cheer them on.