NFL Expands International Reach With Game In Australia

Los Angeles Rams tight end Tyler Higbee (89) is stopped by Philadelphia Eagles safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson (8) during the second half of an NFL football NFC divisional playoff game Sunday, Jan. 19, 20

The NFL has announced its plans to expand its international presence by hosting a game in Australia. In 2026, the league will bring a game to Melbourne at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground, which can accommodate around 100,000 spectators. The Los Angeles Rams will serve as the home team for this game, marking the beginning of a multi-year commitment to play in Melbourne.

This decision reflects the NFL's dedication to becoming a truly global sports property. League executive Peter O'Reilly emphasized the importance of expanding the NFL's footprint and reaching fans worldwide, including those in Australia and Melbourne.

The game is likely to take place in Week 1 to allow teams sufficient time to adjust to the time zone and generate excitement leading up to the event. The NFL aims to schedule the game for prime time on the East Coast of the United States, translating to a noon start time in Melbourne.

The NFL aims to reach fans worldwide, including those in Australia.

The Melbourne Cricket Ground will host the game with the Los Angeles Rams as the home team.

The game is likely to take place in Week 1 to adjust to the time zone.

Furthermore, the NFL established an academy in Australia last year to nurture young talent in the Asia-Pacific region, with the goal of developing future college and professional prospects. Notably, Australian player Jordan Mailata of the Philadelphia Eagles will be featured in the upcoming Super Bowl.

The Rams have held marketing rights in Australia since 2022, underscoring their enthusiasm for participating in the inaugural game in Melbourne. The NFL's commitment to Australia also aligns with efforts to include flag football in the 2032 Olympics, potentially following its debut in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Australia will become the seventh country outside the U.S. to host an NFL game, joining other international locations like England, Mexico, Germany, Brazil, and Canada. The league plans to expand its international presence by scheduling up to eight league-operated regular-season games annually starting in 2025.

In addition to Australia, the NFL will continue its international games in London, Berlin, and Madrid. The league is also set to return to Mexico once renovations to Azteca Stadium are completed after the 2026 World Cup.

This move by the NFL follows a trend of major U.S. sports leagues venturing into Australia, with Major League Baseball hosting games in Sydney in 2014. Australia has also been a host for significant college football matchups in recent years, showcasing the country's growing interest in American sports.