NFL heads to Australia for first time as 2026 international schedule unveiled

13 May 2026 • 10:38 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

NFL heads to Australia for first time as 2026 international schedule unveiled

  • The NFL has unveiled its largest ever international schedule, comprising nine games across eight stadiums, seven cities, and four continents.
  • The San Francisco 49ers will feature prominently, playing the 2026 season opener against the Los Angeles Rams in Melbourne, Australia, and later facing the Minnesota Vikings in Mexico City.
  • Melbourne will host the NFL's inaugural game in Australia, with the 49ers-Rams match scheduled for 10 September (Friday morning local time) and broadcast on Netflix.
  • London is set to host three games, including two consecutive home fixtures for the Jacksonville Jaguars, while Paris, Munich, Rio de Janeiro, and Madrid will each stage one game.
  • NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has stated his ambition to further expand the international calendar to 16 games per season.

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