BREAKING: The San Francisco 49ers are set to make history by playing in Australia’s first-ever NFL Regular Season game at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in 2026. This landmark match against the Los Angeles Rams is not only a major sporting event but also promises a significant boost to Victoria’s economy.
This unprecedented clash will renew a fierce rivalry as both teams are key competitors in the NFC West division. The game is expected to draw attention from the NFL’s massive audience, with nearly 19 million viewers tuning into regular season games in 2025.
Premier Jacinta Allan emphasized the importance of this event: “Bringing the NFL to the MCG is a huge win for Victoria both on and off the field.” Indeed, this game places Victoria in the spotlight, showcasing it as a premier destination for sports tourism.
The significance of the 49ers extends beyond the field; they are among the NFL’s most decorated franchises, boasting five Super Bowl titles. With legends like Joe Montana and Jerry Rice enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, the team’s participation amplifies the event’s appeal to both local and international fans.
Moreover, with 202,000 American visitors recorded in the year ending September 2025, and these tourists contributing $364 million to Victoria’s economy, the NFL game is poised to convert fans into travelers, filling hotels, restaurants, and venues across the state.
Tourism, Sport and Major Events Minister Steve Dimopoulos noted, “This event will shine an international spotlight on Melbourne, bringing even more visitors from across the globe.” The excitement surrounding this historic game aligns with Victoria’s ongoing efforts to attract global attention and investment.
Visit Victoria CEO Brendan McClements described the event as a “landmark moment,” stating, “Securing Australia’s first-ever NFL game is a powerful way to create global demand for Victoria.”
The matchup between the 49ers and Rams will not only captivate sports fans but also contribute to a packed 2026 events calendar in Melbourne, which includes the Melbourne Winter Masterpieces Cartier exhibition, NRL State of Origin, and the Australian Open Golf.
As the countdown to this historic game begins, fans and stakeholders alike are eager to see how this significant development will unfold. For continuous updates on the event, visit nfl.com.
Stay tuned for more details as they emerge!
