Big news, football fans! The NFL is heading Down Under!
Melbourne’s iconic MCG will host Australia’s first-ever regular season NFL game in October 2026, which kicks off a multi-year plan to bring the game to new audiences.
The Los Angeles Rams will take the field as the home team for this historic matchup, marking a huge milestone for the league.
NFL executive Peter O’Reilly shared that the Rams are fully behind the mission to make America’s most popular sport a global phenomenon.
“In 2025 we have confirmed three games in London, our very first regular season game in Berlin, our first regular season game in Madrid.”
“In 2026 we will play our first regular season game in Australia, Melbourne, Australia, as part of a multi-year commitment to play games in the city of Melbourne” said O’Reilly.
#RamsHouse goes down under for the FIRST EVER NFL regular season game in Australia!
🇦🇺 » https://t.co/fEF2UT26cC pic.twitter.com/OsFIxgiAft
— Los Angeles Rams (@RamsNFL) February 5, 2025
Premier of Victoria, Jacinta Allan, said that the announcement is “a win for jobs, a win for businesses and a win for fans who will get to see American football played at the iconic MCG.”
“NFL fans will love Melbourne’s culture, food, sport and entertainment. From hidden laneways to blockbuster events, there’s always something new on show,” said Victoria’s Tourism, Sport, and Major Events Minister, Steve Dimopoulos.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell praised Melbourne for its “rich sports history” and highlighted how the MCG games showcase the league’s bold vision to become a global sport and drive international growth.
“We look forward to making history in what is an important market for the NFL and a significant next step in expanding our international footprint,” he said.
TOUCHDOWN AUSTRALIA 🇦🇺
In 2026 we’re officially coming to Melbourne.
Register your interest 👉 https://t.co/mHEV3ygdr2 pic.twitter.com/WNoq2oPJj3
— NFL Australia & NZ (@NFLAUNZ) February 5, 2025
The Rams and the Philadelphia Eagles both have marketing rights in Australia through the Global Markets Program, which helps NFL teams connect with fans, grow their brand, and create unforgettable experiences outside the U.S.
While we wait for details on the Rams’ opponent, game date, and kickoff time, one thing’s for sure—Melbourne is set to host an epic showdown in 2026.
If you want to stay updated and be the first to know all the latest news about the 2026 game sign up here: nfl.com/Melbourne.
