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NFL international game expansion tour

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2026-10-03 22:52 UTC → 2026-10-17 18:22 UTC · added ~~removed~~

The NFL is executing an international expansion strategy through a regular-season tour spanning seven countries. For the 2026 season, the league has scheduled a record-breaking nine games outside the United States, involving half of its 32 teams. These matchups include stops in Melbourne, London, Paris, Madrid, Munich, Mexico City, and Rio de Janeiro. The league recently completed its first-ever NFL game in Rio de Janeiro at Maracanã Stadium, featuring a Week 3 matchup between the Dallas Cowboys and the Baltimore Ravens. The event drew a record crowd of 72,792 spectators and boosted local tourism, with hotel occupancy reaching 77.90%. High-profile attendees included Brazilian football star Neymar Jr., and the halftime show featured a performance by Brazilian singer Pedro Sampaio. Baltimore Ravens cornerback Marlon Humphrey praised the venue, describing the atmosphere as “incredible” and one of the most memorable experiences of his career. Regarding the playing surface, Humphrey noted that while the grass showed signs of wear, repairs including the addition of synthetic fibers provided a “satisfactory playing sensation.” The broadcast set new viewership records for the NFL’s international expansion, averaging approximately 24.9 million viewers on CBS, with peak viewership exceeding 30 million. This matchup has officially become the most-watched international game in league history. Despite the victory, the Ravens suffered significant roster setbacks due to injuries to both starting centers. Jovaughn Gwyn sustained a fractured fibula and is expected to miss two to three months, while Ethan Pocic also suffered a long-term knee injury. In response, the Ravens have begun making roster moves, including signing Andre James and Kyle Hergel to the practice squad to address the depleted offensive line.

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