Melbourne is set to host a landmark moment for Australian sport as the NFL confirms its first-ever regular season game for points will take place at the Melbourne Cricket Ground later this year.
The clash will feature the San Francisco 49ers, who have just been announced, facing the previously confirmed Los Angeles Rams.
This historic game in Melbourne is part of the NFL’s ongoing global commitment, which also includes scheduled games in London, Berlin, and Madrid.
A rivalry with playoff history
Their matchup with the LA Rams brings one of the NFL’s fiercest rivalries to Melbourne. As divisional rivals in the National Football Conference West division, the two teams meet at least twice each season, with encounters regularly carrying major playoff implications.
In the most recent season, both teams finished with identical 12–5 win-loss records and qualified for the playoffs.
For the 49ers, this comes during a banner year. The franchise, which has captured five Super Bowl titles and counts legends like Joe Montana, Jerry Rice, and Steve Young among its alumni, is also gearing up to host Super Bowl LX at Levi’s Stadium.
Today’s stars, including Christian McCaffrey and Brock Purdy, will no doubt bring their own flair to the historic Melbourne matchup.
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Melbourne embraces global sport
Melbourne Cricket Club Chief Executive Officer Stuart Fox said the announcement of the second team added further excitement to the historic occasion.
“We’re thrilled that both teams, the LA Rams and the San Francisco 49ers, have now been announced to play at the ’G later this year. The first NFL regular season game for points in Australia, and it’s happening right at the beating heart of Melbourne, the mighty MCG,” he said.
“While the date and ticket info are still to be released, the knowledge of both teams competing is sure to excite sporting fans as we move closer to this historic event for the ground and the city.”
The date, kickoff time, and ticketing details are expected to be revealed in the coming months, giving Melburnians plenty of time to prepare for what promises to be a truly unforgettable sporting spectacle.