BREAKING: The San Francisco 49ers are officially confirmed to play in Australia’s first-ever NFL Regular Season game at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on October 14, 2026. This landmark event will see the 49ers take on the Los Angeles Rams, promising to elevate Melbourne’s status as a global sports hub and deliver a significant boost to Victoria’s visitor economy.
This historic matchup is not only a thrilling showdown between two iconic NFL teams but also a vital opportunity for Victoria, which recorded 202,000 American visitors in the year ending September 2025. These visitors contributed $364 million in spending, showcasing the economic importance of such high-profile events. Premier Jacinta Allan hailed the announcement as a monumental achievement for the state, stating, “Bringing the NFL to the MCG is a huge win for Victoria both on and off the field.”
With nearly 19 million viewers tuning into NFL games in 2025, this game at the MCG is expected to translate into increased tourism, filling hotels, restaurants, and venues across Victoria. Officials anticipate it will ignite interest among American fans, converting them into travelers eager to experience the local culture.
Tourism, Sport and Major Events Minister Steve Dimopoulos emphasized the long-term benefits, saying, “This event will shine an international spotlight on Melbourne, bringing even more visitors from across the globe.” The matchup also revives one of the fiercest rivalries in the league as both teams vie for playoff positions, adding to the excitement.
As the 49ers prepare for their showdown, attention is on the team’s illustrious history, which includes five Super Bowl titles and legends like Joe Montana, Jerry Rice, and Steve Young. Their home ground, Levi’s Stadium, is currently hosting the Super Bowl, further amplifying exposure for Victoria through various promotional activities aimed at millions of American fans.
Brendan McClements, CEO of Visit Victoria, called the event a “landmark moment,” highlighting its potential to create global demand for the state. The game adds to a packed 2026 events calendar, which includes the Melbourne Winter Masterpieces, NRL State of Origin, and the Australian Open Golf.
With the world watching, Melbourne solidifies its reputation as an international sports destination, becoming the only city to host an international Grand Slam, a Formula One Grand Prix, and now, an NFL Regular Season game. The excitement is palpable as fans and officials alike await this groundbreaking event, set to reshape the future of sports tourism in Australia.
Stay tuned for further updates and get ready to witness history at the MCG! For more information, visit nfl.com.
