The MCG has hosted several major sporting events over the years, but in September 2026, the venue will see a ferocious NFL game on its turf for the first time.
In just under 12 months time, thousands of Americans will flood through the airport gates in Melbourne to attend the first-ever regular-season NFL match on Australian soil.
Visit Victoria launched a new promotional video for the game scheduled to take place next September during the LA Rams‘ battle against the Seattle Hawks on Monday.
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The MCG has been named as the host venue for the match, with the Los Angeles Rams selected as the first team to make the trip to Australia.
It remains unclear which team the Rams will face on Australian soil, but Eddie McGuire hinted that it very well could be the side’s latest NFL opponents – the Seattle Seahawks.
“We haven’t announced yet who the second team will be, but it might well be Seattle,” McGuire, who was in attendance for the game, said.
Eddie McGuire seen at the Los Angeles Rams home ground. Nine
“The NFL loves nothing more than that magic number of 100,000 people. So while this is all brand new, the great history and 100,000 for the mighty G, is a big attraction.”
The NFL has played regular-season games on international turf on several occasions over the past two decades, with Brazil, Ireland, London, Germany and Spain all set to host games this season.
Just last month, the Rams travelled to London to face the Jacksonville Jaguars, who suffered a 35-7 loss, at Wembley Stadium.
The promotional video for Australia showcased several key landmarks around Melbourne, with the MCG set to be dubbed ‘the Rams house’ when they arrive.
“The fact that the LA Rams have picked the mighty Melbourne Cricket Ground to come and play their game just fills us with joy,” McGuire said.
The Los Angeles Rams celebrate a touchdown. Getty
“We can’t wait to embrace all the American fans that are coming Down Under. It is the best place to come.
“LA, there couldn’t be a better city to fall in love with Melbourne. The same laid back beaches, sports, entertainment, food, wine, freedom, fun … all those great things that Americans love and embrace, that is the DNA of Melbourne.”
The exact date of the match is unknown; however, the AFL has dropped hints that it could be scheduled to take place in the second or third week of September.
Tickets are also yet to go on sale, but fans can register their interest for them online.