NC State to be paid millions for football game in Brazil

NC State is being paid $2 million plus a share of revenue from fan travel packages and sponsorships for its season-opening football game in Brazil.

When the Wolfpack take on ACC rival Virginia in Rio de Janeiro on Aug. 29, it will be the first Football Bowl Subdivision game played in South America.

NC State signed the participation agreement with Athlete Advantage in mid-November. Athlete Advantage is responsible for planning, managing, marketing and executing athletic events, according to the agreement, which WRAL obtained via a public records request.

The game, part of a two-year non-conference scheduling agreement between NC State and Virginia, was scheduled to be played in Charlottesville. NC State beat Virginia in 2025, but the game didn’t count in the ACC standings, which helped the Cavaliers reach the ACC Championship Game. The ACC is moving to a nine-game conference schedule, so the 2026 game will now count in the league standings.

Athlete Advantage will pay NC State a $2 million participation fee that is due 30 days after the game. The Wolfpack can earn up to $500,000 from fan travel package revenue and up to 20% of net revenue from sponsorships. NC State will receive 10% of the revenue from fan travel packs.

NC State will have to be in Brazil by Aug. 26. The Wolfpack can bring up to 105 players plus 95 coaches and immediate support staff on provided chartered flights. NC State can also bring up to 75 other individuals, including administrators (two), band members (60), cheerleaders and mascots (13), on provided commercial flights. Band and cheer members will have to participate in ancillary activities associated with the event.

Both parties would owe a $1.5 million cancellation fee. NC State is allowed to conduct a participation review that includes state of the venue and playing surface as well as other logistical issues.

NC State is responsible for all waivers, medical clearances, passports and visas.