College football history will be made on August 29, 2026, when NC State and Virginia open the 2026 season — and ACC conference play — in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The matchup, officially branded “College Football Brasil,” marks the first college football game ever hosted in South America, offering the ACC a global stage as the sport continues its international expansion.
A Historic First for College Football
The game will be played at Nilton Santos Stadium, a world-renowned venue best known for major soccer matches, as well as hosting events during the Pan American Games and the Olympics. While the NFL has recently added Brazil to its international series — playing regular-season games in São Paulo in 2024 and 2025 — this will be the first major American football event held in Rio de Janeiro.
ACC commissioner Jim Phillips noted that launching conference play abroad highlights the league’s commitment to innovation and expanding the sport’s reach. The use of the Portuguese spelling “Brasil” in the event’s name underscores the cultural connection organizers hope to build with local fans.
NC State and Virginia Embrace a Global Stage
Virginia will serve as the designated home team for the matchup. NC State athletic director Boo Corrigan called the experience “unforgettable,” emphasizing the unique opportunity for players, fans, and the ACC to showcase college football to a new international audience.
The 2026 opener comes with meaningful context for both programs:
- Virginia enters aiming to build on a strong season after finishing 7–1 in ACC play and winning the conference title.
- NC State looks to bounce back after a 4–4 conference record, with hopes of resetting momentum on one of the sport’s biggest international stages.
The teams faced each other earlier this season, with NC State edging out Virginia 35–31, adding intrigue to the 2026 rematch.
Why This Game Matters
The ACC’s decision to take a conference matchup overseas signals a new era for college football. It mirrors the NFL’s strategy of global outreach and aligns with the sport’s growing appeal beyond the United States.
For fans, the NC State vs. Virginia opener provides:
- A historic first-ever college football game in South America
- A unique neutral-site environment with Virginia serving as home team
- A prime international showcase for two competitive ACC programs
- A kickoff event in a city globally known for sports, culture, and tourism
Looking Ahead
With both college football and the NFL expanding into Brazil, Rio de Janeiro is poised to become a new hub for American football fans worldwide. The 2026 season opener not only sets the tone for the ACC season but also represents a landmark milestone in the sport’s international growth.