49ers confirmed for MCG NFL game

Melbourne’s reputation as Australia’s sporting capital has reached a new milestone, with the San Francisco 49ers confirmed to play in the nation’s first-ever NFL Regular Season game at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

The 49ers will face the Los Angeles Rams in a historic clash that is expected to deliver a major boost to Victoria’s visitor economy while placing the state firmly in the global sporting spotlight.

The matchup brings together two of the NFL’s most recognised teams from the west coast of the United States, one of Victoria’s most important tourism and business markets. It also renews one of the league’s fiercest rivalries, with the teams battling as NFC West opponents in a game with playoff implications.

The San Francisco 49ers are among the NFL’s most decorated franchises, boasting five Super Bowl titles and legends including Joe Montana, Jerry Rice and Steve Young, all enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Their home ground, Levi’s Stadium, is hosting the Super Bowl this week, amplifying exposure for Victoria through activations, advertising and media appearances in front of millions of American fans.

The United States remains one of Victoria’s strongest international markets, with 202,000 American visitors recorded in the year ending September 2025. Those visitors stayed 2.1 million nights and spent $364 million across the state.

With almost 19 million viewers tuning into NFL Regular Season games in 2025, the Melbourne fixture is expected to convert fans into travellers, filling hotels, restaurants and venues across Victoria.

Premier Jacinta Allan said securing the 49ers elevated the significance of the event.

“Bringing the NFL to the MCG is a huge win for Victoria both on and off the field.”

“Melbourne is now the only city in the world to host an international Grand Slam, a Formula One Grand Prix and an NFL Regular Season game.”

Tourism, Sport and Major Events Minister Steve Dimopoulos said the benefits would be felt year-round.

“This event will shine an international spotlight on Melbourne bringing even more visitors from across the globe.”

Visit Victoria CEO Brendan McClements described the game as a landmark moment.

“Securing Australia’s first-ever NFL game is a powerful way to create global demand for Victoria.”

The game adds to a packed 2026 events calendar, including the Melbourne Winter Masterpieces Cartier exhibition, NRL State of Origin and the Australian Open Golf.

More info at nfl.com