The NFL is pushing its international growth with a historic announcement. The Los Angeles Rams will play against the San Francisco 49ers in the first-ever regular season game in Australia. The match is scheduled for Friday, September 11, 2026 (local time) at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

This game marks a major milestone for the NFL. It will be the first official regular season match ever played in Australia. The iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground, which can hold more than 100,000 fans, will host the exciting NFC West rivalry.

The 2026 NFL season will feature a record nine international games. In addition to Melbourne, the league will play in London (three games), Munich, Paris, Rio de Janeiro, Madrid, and Mexico City. These games will reach fans across four continents.

At the same time, the NFL continues to expand its Global Markets Program. This program gives teams the right to build their brand and fan base in selected international cities. In 2026, Italy was added as a new market, and several teams increased their international territories. All 32 NFL teams now have marketing rights in 22 different countries.

The Melbourne game is already creating strong excitement. Tickets sold out quickly, and the city expects a big boost in tourism and local economy. The Rams, who have held marketing rights in Australia since 2021, are especially proud to lead this historic event.

This move is part of the NFL’s long-term plan to grow the sport worldwide and bring more games outside the United States in the coming years.