Dubbed “College Football Brazil”, the game will be played at Nilton Santos Stadium (also known as Engenhao) and television with additional streaming possibilities still being discussed by ESPN.
“We are excited about the opportunity to play the game in a beautiful, world-renowned city like Rio de Janeiro and bring American football to another continent,” NC State athletic director Boo Corrigan said in a statement. “Playing a road game against Virginia in Brazil is certainly a unique situation, but it should be an unforgettable experience.”
According to a news release, the name “College Football Brazil” intentionally uses the Portuguese spelling “Brasil” to reflect “the sense of cultural connection at the core of this event.”
“Having NC State and Virginia open our conference schedule on an international stage in Rio de Janeiro reflects our league’s vision, innovation and collaboration,” ACC Commissioner Jim Phillips said in the statement. “This is an extraordinary moment for the ACC and college football.
“We are appreciative of College Football Brazil for this incredible opportunity to celebrate our student-athletes and highlight the ACC, our schools and the global appeal of the game of football. We are proud of both institutions for taking the lead on this historic event and our partners at ESPN, who will broadcast this premier event.”
Rio de Janeiro has hosted the FIFA World Cup, the Olympic Games and the Copa America. The NFL has held games in Sao Paulo and recently signed a multiyear deal to bring at least three more games to Brazil over five years, starting with a game in Rio de Janeiro in 2026. The city was chosen for its international reputation, the quality of the stadium and its ability to host large-scale events safely and efficiently.
The Games are organized by Athletes Advantage in partnership with Brazilian Sports Business and have the full support of government partners in Rio. It will be played at the home of Botafogo de Futebol e Regatas of the Brazilian Serie A. The 44,661-seat stadium has also hosted several world-class events, including the 2016 Summer Olympics.
Virginia will be the designated home team, and will count in the ACC conference standings.
“This is a great opportunity for the University of Virginia and our football program,” Virginia athletic director Carla Williams said in a statement. “UVA is already globally recognized, and this event allows us to expand our international presence as a leading academic institution and a premier athletics program. We are honored to participate in such a historic event and thrilled that Brazil will be our host.”
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