Melbourne has secured the rights to host the first regular-season NFL game in Australia, beating out bids from both Sydney and Perth. Scheduled for 2026, the match will take place at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) and features the Los Angeles Rams, who will sacrifice one of their nine home games that season. While the opponent is yet to be confirmed, there are reports that the Philadelphia Eagles may be involved. This highly anticipated game will possibly coincide with the AFL finals in September.
NFL executive Peter O’Reilly remarked on the significance of the event, stating that it marks a crucial step in the league’s global expansion, highlighting Australia’s strong existing fanbase. The Rams expressed their excitement, with their president asserting their desire to be part of this historic moment.
The NFL has aspirations for continued presence in Australia, supported by a partnership with the Victorian government and local organisations. This development follows the league’s efforts to grow its brand internationally, including the establishment of an office and academy in Australia. As the NFL works towards the 2026 game, there are plans for more events in the future, making this a significant milestone in the league’s international outreach.