Big surprise for sports fans in Australia. In the 2026 season, the NFL will host its first-ever regular season game on Australian soil, and the matchup couldn’t be juicier. Longtime rivals San Francisco 49ers and Los Angeles Rams will face off at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Yes, the temple of cricket is about to witness some full-on American football chaos.
The announcement came in a pretty cinematic way. Australia Zoo’s Robert Irwin appeared on The Pat McAfee Show and dropped the bombshell, saying,
BREAKING: "The Los Angeles Rams will be going up against the San Francisco 49ers in Australia" @RobertIrwin #PMSLive pic.twitter.com/7Uyc0uSyQj
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) February 5, 2026
Short, sharp, and full of swagger.
The Rams had already been confirmed as the host team, but the identity of their opponent was kept under wraps—until now. The date and kickoff time are still to be announced, but excitement is already sky-high. An NFC West rivalry, thousands of miles from home, in one of the world’s most famous stadiums? The NFL clearly chose chaos—in a good way.
Making it official, NFL Australia and New Zealand General Manager Charlotte Offord said, “We are delighted that the San Francisco 49ers will take on the Los Angeles Rams,” Charlotte Offord, the NFL Australia and New Zealand general manager, said in a statement. “The 49ers are a popular franchise within the Australian market, and this rivalry game solidifies what we know is going to be an incredible experience for our fans down under.” Translation: Australian fans love the 49ers, and this rivalry guarantees fireworks.
Rams President Kevin Demoff also emphasized how big this moment is for the franchise. According to him, “Since we first secured marketing rights to the country in 2021 and more recently since the announcement of this game last year, we have seen tremendous excitement for our team from fans both in Australia and across the world,” Rams president Kevin Demoff said. “We look forward to spending this offseason continuing to deepen our connection with the Melbourne community leading up to the game this fall.” In other words, this isn’t just a game—it’s a long-term relationship.
Meanwhile, 2026 could turn into a passport-heavy year for the 49ers. Along with Australia, they may also play in Mexico City, as the NFL plans a return there in December. Commissioner Roger Goodell has already confirmed the comeback, and 49ers owner Jed York has openly said Mexico sits at the top of his wish list.
Overall, the NFL is planning a record nine international games in 2026, spanning Australia, Mexico City, Paris, Rio de Janeiro, Munich, Madrid, and London. But it all kicks off with Rams vs 49ers at the MCG. Buckle up.
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