NFL schedules Ravens-Cowboys game at Brazil's Maracanã Stadium despite field concerns

The Baltimore Ravens and Dallas Cowboys are set to meet at Rio de Janeiro's Maracanã Stadium on Sunday, marking the NFL's first regular-season game in Brazil. Venue officials said they are using a specialized machine that applies synthetic fiber stitching to the grass in an effort to improve the field's durability and player safety.

The NFL has indicated that postponing the matchup is not feasible because the teams have different bye weeks, making rescheduling complex. Both clubs are expected to receive early access to the field so they can determine appropriate footwear.

"The addition of fiber stitching is intended to increase the field’s resistance and safety," the stadium’s official account posted on Thursday.

Ben Fischer of Sports Business Journal noted that cancellation would be impractical, given the logistical challenges of rearranging the schedule.

The game is slated to begin at 4:25 p.m. ET on Sunday.