Rams and 49ers to meet at the MCG
The NFL has confirmed the date and kickoff time for Australia’s first regular-season game. The Los Angeles Rams will take on the San Francisco 49ers on Friday, Sept. 11, at approximately 10:35 a.m. AEST at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
For viewers in the United States, the matchup will air live on Thursday, Sept. 10, at 8:35 p.m. ET and 5:35 p.m. PT. The broadcast partner has not yet been announced.
Growing international spotlight
Rams Head of International Stephanie Cheng described the game as a landmark moment for both the league and the franchise.
“We are thrilled to kick off our season in Melbourne, enhancing an already historic moment for both the NFL and the Rams,” Cheng said. She added that visits to the city have highlighted growing excitement among local fans and noted that the Friday morning kickoff in Australia will allow U.S. audiences to watch the rivalry in primetime on Thursday night.
The game marks another step in the NFL’s broader international expansion strategy, bringing a longstanding NFC West rivalry to one of the world’s most iconic sporting venues.
Ticket sales timeline announced
Final preparations are underway for ticket sales. Eligible Rams season-ticket members will receive access to an exclusive presale beginning Wednesday, April 1, at 2 p.m. PT.
Hospitality packages will become available through Ticketmaster starting Monday, April 6, at 5 p.m. PT. General public ticket sales will open Tuesday, April 7, at 5 p.m. PT. All tickets and hospitality packages will be sold directly via the Ticketmaster website.
High expectations for demand
NFL Australia & New Zealand General Manager Charlotte Offord said the announcement has already generated significant anticipation.
“We are thrilled to be able to confirm the time and date for Australia’s first-ever regular-season NFL game at the MCG between the Rams and 49ers — a match-up that has created plenty of hype and excitement,” Offord said. She noted strong interest both domestically and internationally ahead of ticket availability.
The event is expected to draw a large crowd at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, adding another chapter to the NFL’s expanding global footprint and introducing regular-season competition to Australian fans for the first time.
