The National Football League (NFL) announced on Wednesday its decision to host its first-ever game in South America, expanding its international series to São Paulo, Brazil, in 2024. The game will be held at the Corinthians Arena, marking a significant milestone as the league aims to further its global reach.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell expressed excitement about the league’s foray into Brazil, stating, “Brazil has established itself as a key market for the NFL, and we are excited to be playing in Brazil and São Paulo for the first time in 2024.” The move is part of the NFL’s broader strategy to become a global sport, connecting with new audiences and fans around the world.
The game in São Paulo is scheduled to be one of five international games in the 2024 season. Alongside the Brazil debut, three games are set to take place in London and one in Munich, Germany. The designated teams for these international matchups will be announced in early 2024, with additional details, including dates, matchups, and kickoff times, confirmed later in the year when the full 2024 schedule is released.
Furthermore, in a league meeting held in Dallas, NFL clubs voted to approve a substantial increase in annual international games, from four to eight, starting in 2025. This decision underscores the league’s commitment to expanding its global footprint and growing the sport of American football on an international scale.
NFL Chairman Joel Glazer, who also owns the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, expressed enthusiasm about the increased international presence, stating, “International games have been a huge success, and we are excited for the opportunity to share the sport of American football with more fans from around the world in the future.”
The league’s push for international expansion has seen officials scouting potential locations in Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Madrid, France, and Australia for future regular-season games. While the NFL continues to explore new markets and host cities, the decision to venture into Brazil marks a significant step toward diversifying the league’s global presence and engaging with football enthusiasts in South America.
As the NFL continues to prioritize global growth, the expansion into Brazil and the increased number of international games in the coming years highlight the league’s commitment to making American football a truly worldwide phenomenon.
