The San Francisco 49ers have reacted after the NFL confirmed a historic game in Australia.
The NFL announced the 49ers will face the Los Angeles Rams in Melbourne during the 2026 regular season. The Rams will serve as the home team for the matchup. The game will be played at the famous Melbourne Cricket Ground. It will mark the first NFL regular-season game ever held in Australia.
The 49ers shared a short post on X that read, “It’s a g’day mate 🇦🇺.” The light message came days before Super Bowl LX. It reflected excitement and pride tied to a major league milestone.
League officials described the event as a major step in global growth. NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said Melbourne fits the league’s long-term vision.
"Expanding to Melbourne, Australia, a beautiful city with a rich sports history, underlines our ambitions to become a global sport and accelerate international growth," Goodell said, via 49ers.com.
49ers CEO Al Guido also shared his statement after the news announcement.
"This is a terrific opportunity to continue to support the league in its mission to grow the game of football," Guido said, via the NFL.com. "We look forward to working with the NFL to benefit local Australian communities through sport."
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The Rams and 49ers rivalry adds extra weight to the occasion. Both teams finished last season with 12-5 records and lost to their joint NFC West rival Seattle Seahawks in the playoffs. San Francisco leaned on balance, strong defense and steady play from quarterback Brock Purdy. Running back Christian McCaffrey powered the offense with production on the ground and through the air.
Los Angeles relied on scoring pace and passing strength. Quarterback Matthew Stafford led the league in passing yards and passing touchdowns. Receiver Puka Nacua emerged as the top target and key playmaker, leading the NFL in receptions. The Rams' offensive style made them one of the league’s most dangerous teams.
Details like date, kickoff time and ticket sales will come later. For now, the 49ers’ message has said enough. Red and gold are going global.