São Paulo, Brazil – The 2024 NFL season will kick off with an historic Friday night game in South America, marking the first time the NFL will host a game in Brazil. The game is set to take place at the Arena Corinthians in São Paulo on Sept. 6, with the Philadelphia Eagles as the home team. This announcement was made by Commissioner Roger Goodell during a media event in Las Vegas.
The Eagles’ participation in this milestone event was met with enthusiasm from the team’s owner, Jeffrey Lurie, who expressed their honor in being selected. Lurie highlighted the opportunity to expand the NFL’s global fanbase by bringing American football to the sports enthusiasts in Brazil, a country known for its cultural diversity and vibrant environment.
Although this game will count as a home game for the Eagles, they are still scheduled for nine home games in the 2024 season, ensuring that they will maintain a strong presence at their home stadium, the Linc. In addition to this game in Brazil, the Eagles will be facing off against several opponents on the road, including the Falcons, Panthers, Browns, Packers, Jaguars, and Steelers.
The significance of the Eagles playing on a Friday night is not lost in history, as it marks their first Friday season opener since 1970. This unique scheduling aims to showcase the NFL’s international growth and ambitions, according to Commissioner Goodell. Additionally, this game in Brazil will be the Eagles’ second overseas regular-season game, following their victory against the Jaguars at Wembley Stadium in London in 2018, further solidifying their global presence.
The NFL’s expansion beyond the United States is evident in their history of international games, with previous matches held in London, Mexico City, and Germany. The inclusion of Brazil in the lineup of international games for the 2024 season signals the league’s commitment to growing its global footprint and reaching diverse audiences around the world.