The Baltimore Ravens are set to make waves on the international stage in 2026, as they gear up for a historic showdown against the Dallas Cowboys. This Week 3 clash is expected to unfold in the vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, marking a significant milestone for the NFL.
In what could be the first NFL game ever held in Rio, the Cowboys will take on the role of the designated home team at the iconic Maracana Stadium. This venue, famous for hosting the 2016 Summer Olympics ceremonies, boasts a capacity of around 78,000, promising an electric atmosphere for this groundbreaking event.
This matchup is poised to be a part of the NFL's ambitious international expansion, which aims to feature nine games across seven countries in 2026. The Ravens have previously tested international waters twice in London, emerging victorious against the Tennessee Titans in 2023 but falling to the Jacksonville Jaguars back in 2017.
The Ravens and Cowboys have crossed paths seven times, with Baltimore leading the series 6-1. Their last encounter in 2024 was a nail-biter, with the Ravens jumping to a 28-6 lead before the Cowboys mounted a comeback to clinch a 28-25 victory.
Back home, the Ravens are unlikely to host an international game this season due to the ongoing $500 million renovation of M&T Bank Stadium. Teams undergoing such major upgrades typically keep their full home schedule intact. Meanwhile, fans eagerly await the full release of the 2026 NFL schedule, anticipated in May.
As the NFL continues to broaden its horizons, this Ravens-Cowboys matchup in Rio is shaping up to be a thrilling chapter in the league's global journey.