Chargers Set to Kick Off 2025 NFL Season with Groundbreaking Game in Brazil

The Los Angeles Chargers are geared up to launch the 2025 NFL season in an extraordinary location. Scheduled for September 5, 2025, the Chargers will clash in an international matchup at the Neo Quimica Arena in São Paulo, Brazil. This game signifies the NFL’s continued commitment to expanding its global reach.

The Chargers will face an opponent to be announced in the spring according to NFL sources. Their involvement in this game will make them the first franchise in NFL history to compete across five continents, showcasing the league’s efforts to enhance its international presence.

Notable International Journey

Since 1976, the Chargers have taken part in various regular season and preseason games in multiple cities worldwide. Their previous international appearances include Mexico City, London, Tokyo, Berlin, and Sydney. This latest venture into Brazil marks a significant chapter in the team’s storied history.

A Historic First for Brazil

Last season, the Philadelphia Eagles and Green Bay Packers made headlines when they played the inaugural NFL game in South America, establishing a precedent that the Chargers are set to continue. The Eagles triumphed over the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LIX and are scheduled to meet the Chargers in 2025. However, the reigning champions typically get the honor of opening the following season at home, making it unlikely for them to follow up with back-to-back games in South America.

Chargers’ Recent Performance

In the 2024 season, the Chargers ended with an 11-6 record under the leadership of coach Jim Harbaugh. Despite their promising season, they faced elimination, losing to the Houston Texans 32-12 in the wild-card playoff round.

Leadership Voices Excitement

Chargers President of Business Operations A.G. Spanos expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming game. He stated, “It’s an honor to once again represent the NFL on an international stage. It’s also a tremendous opportunity to help grow the game and bring the Chargers brand to millions of sports fans across Brazil and Latin America.” This statement underscores the organizational commitment to building a larger fan base in the region.

NFL’s International Series Expands

The NFL announced that seven regular season games are slated for international play during the 2025 season, with a potential for eight. Alongside the Chargers’ game in Brazil, London is set to host three games, while the Miami Dolphins will participate in the first-ever regular season game in Spain. Additionally, the Indianapolis Colts will serve as the home team for a matchup in Berlin, Germany, and the Pittsburgh Steelers will venture to Dublin to host the inaugural regular season game in Ireland.

Future International Games

Looking ahead, the NFL has already earmarked the Los Angeles Rams as the designated team for a game in Melbourne, Australia, in 2026, marking yet another milestone for the league. This progression indicates the NFL’s determination to popularize American football globally.

Schedule Announcements Awaited

The full slate of regular season matchups for the 2025 season is forecasted to be unveiled in May, generating anticipation among fans eager to see how the rest of the season unfolds. The NFL’s proactive approach to international expansion reflects its adaptability and desire to engage with a diverse array of fans.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.