⚽ Maracanã: The Temple of Football Kicks Off the Year in January 2026

The Maracanã, the Sacred Temple of Football, starts the year with maximum intensity, serving as the stage for the first major men's competitions on the calendar. January marks the official return of elite football to Rio de Janeiro, with games that warm up the season and mobilize the passion of the fans.

The excitement at the Maracanã at the beginning of the year revolves around competitions organized by the Rio de Janeiro State Football Federation (FERJ) and the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF):

1. Campeonato Carioca 2026 – State Passion on the Sacred Pitch (FERJ)

The Campeonato Carioca, in its initial stage known as the Taça Guanabara, is the main competition to stir the Maracanã in January. Organized by FERJ, the tournament pits the biggest forces in Rio de Janeiro football—Flamengo, Fluminense, Vasco da Gama, and Botafogo—against each other, kicking off the season in Rio de Janeiro.

This is the moment to see the city's great clubs begin their journeys, test their squads, and compete for the first title of the year. The Maracanã hosts the opening clashes, which already carry all the rivalry and the historical weight of Rio football.

2. Campeonato Brasileiro Série A 2026 – The Start of the Greatest National Contest (CBF)

Following the new national calendar defined by the CBF, the Campeonato Brasileiro Série A now also has its first games played in January.

Considered the most balanced and challenging tournament in the country, the Brasileirão brings the challenge of the points-based schedule to the Maracanã earlier. For the clubs that play at the stadium, the start of the Brasileirão in January means an even more intense season, with the pursuit of the national title starting sooner than usual, ensuring the presence of high-level, highly relevant matches at the Temple of Football from the very first month.

🔥 Don't Just Read About It, Live It!

Experience the unique passion of football at the Maracanã. Witness the debut of the giants Flamengo, Fluminense, Vasco da Gama, or Botafogo!

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