League: NFL Sport: Football Country: United States Category: Match Previews

Ravens-Cowboys game in Brazil raises player safety concerns

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 26, 2026, 7:32 AM

Last updated Sep 26, 2026

Ravens-Cowboys game in Brazil raises player safety concerns

Summary

Baltimore Ravens and Dallas Cowboys are set to face off in Rio de Janeiro on September 24, 2026. However, concerns about the Maracanã Stadium's field quality have sparked a backlash among fans. The NFL Players Association highlighted issues with field traction and stability, prompting calls for the game to take place in the U.S. Despite these worries, the NFL insists the field will be ready before kickoff. This matchup marks the league's first regular-season game in Rio, aiming to expand its international presence.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•NFLPA reports field may be loose and patchy before kickoff.
•Fans advocate for an end to international games amid safety concerns.
•NBA has faced similar criticism over field conditions in past games.
•Ravens and Cowboys enter the game with a 1-1 record.

Latest Updates

7:32 AMYahoo Sports — ‘Stop International Games,’ ‘This Game Should Be Played in America’ — NFL Fans Raise Player Safety Concerns Over Ravens-Cowboys Game in Brazil

What they're saying

"
The NFL wanted a marquee international game in Rio de Janeiro that would bring fans from both sides of the Atlantic together. What it has instead gotten is a week-long argument about whether the grass can survive four quarters of NFL football.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Baltimore Ravens Dallas Cowboys NFL Football