The Los Angeles Rams have been designated as the home team for the game, which is scheduled to take place at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). The opposing team will be revealed at a later date, according to the NFL. “Expanding to Melbourne, Australia, a city renowned for its rich sports culture, reflects our ambition to become a truly global sport and foster international growth,” stated NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. “We are excited to make history in an important market for the NFL, marking a significant step in our international expansion.”
Social media buzzed with reactions, as the Los Angeles Rams tweeted, “#RamsHouse goes down under for the FIRST EVER NFL regular season game in Australia!” along with a link and an accompanying graphic celebrating the announcement. Rams owner Stanley Kroenke expressed his enthusiasm by highlighting the significance of this event for the team’s global fan base. “Identifying Australia as one of our global markets was inspired not only by our passionate fans there but also by Los Angeles’ pivotal role as a gateway to Australia and the Pacific,” Kroenke noted. “This is an exciting moment for Rams fans worldwide, especially in Australia, where we’ve received a warm welcome over recent years.”
The NFL’s venture into Australia also involves the Philadelphia Eagles, who hold marketing rights in the continent. The MCG will transform into what fans are calling the “#RamsHouse” come 2026. NFL Australia & NZ shared their enthusiasm via Twitter, encouraging fans to register their interest in witnessing this landmark event.
Australia is already considered a key global market for the NFL, boasting a fan base of approximately 6.6 million. Victoria Premier Jacinta Allan emphasized the multifaceted benefits of the game, stating, “It’s a win for jobs, a win for businesses, and a win for fans eager to witness American football at the iconic MCG.”
While 2026 marks the inaugural regular season game in Australia, it isn’t the league’s first visit. Previously, the Denver Broncos faced the San Diego Chargers during a 1999 preseason game in Sydney. Up until now, the NFL has hosted 55 regular season games internationally, with cities like London, Mexico City, Toronto, São Paulo, and Frankfurt being selected in the past.
The upcoming game at Melbourne Cricket Ground signifies a new era for the NFL’s global outreach, potentially paving the way for further international matches. Fans and stakeholders alike eagerly anticipate this landmark event, which not only highlights Australia as a burgeoning market but also solidifies the NFL’s commitment to broadening its international appeal.
