Brazil is set to host the NFL for the first time in league history. Corinthians Arena in São Paulo will be the venue for a game on Friday night during Week 1 of the 2024 NFL season. The specific date is September 6, 2024. The Philadelphia Eagles will play at home in the upcoming game. However, the opponent is yet to be revealed. The away team will be announced before the season starts, marking NFL’s Inaugural Game in Brazil.
The Eagles concluded an 11-6 season with a disappointing loss in the Wild Card Round against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. So, they are eager to bounce back. Despite a promising start to the season, Philadelphia faced a setback. Currently, they are focused on turning things around, beginning with their upcoming game in Brazil.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell mentioned that having the first international game in South America is a big deal. It shows how the league has grown globally. The game is on a Friday night in Week 1, a special way to highlight the NFL’s international plans.
Jeffrey Lurie, the Eagles’ Chairman and CEO, said the team feels honored to be part of this historic game. They are excited to bring Eagles football to Brazil, with its diverse culture and welcoming environment, and to connect with the 38 million sports fans in the country.
“This landmark first international game in South America demonstrates the ongoing expansion of our global footprint,” Goodell expounded in a press release. “Playing on Friday night of Week 1 is a unique way to highlight our international growth and ambitions.”
Exciting News in São Paulo: NFL’s Inaugural Game in Brazil
São Paulo Mayor, Ricardo Nunes, expressed his confidence in the city hosting the NFL game during the first week of the 2024 season. He stated,
“The league’s decision to choose São Paulo is a true testament to their confidence in our capabilities as a host city.”
São Paulo Mayor, Ricardo Nunes
Nunes went on to highlight the significance of this historic event, noting,
“Having this spectacle on the eve of Independence Day will not only create a great economic impact but also generate job opportunities for São Paulo. It will showcase our city as a globally relevant destination for the world’s most exciting sports and entertainment events.”
São Paulo Mayor, Ricardo Nunes
This game holds a special distinction as the first Friday night match in Week 1 in over 50 years. The last time such an occurrence took place was on September 18, 1970, when the Cardinals played against the Rams.
Global Presence
In recent times, the NFL has been actively expanding its global footprint. Therefore, the move to Brazil is a strategic step to grow its fanbase. The upcoming season will see the Chicago Bears, Minnesota Vikings, and Jacksonville Jaguars participating in games in London. On the other hand, the Carolina Panthers will have a game in Munich, further extending the league’s international reach.