The San Francisco 49ers will basically go on a world tour during the 2026 season.
It was confirmed earlier this month that Kyle Shanahan’s squad will travel down to Melbourne to play in the NFL‘s first-ever game in Australia. The 49ers will take on the Los Angeles Rams in this international showdown. Although it hasn’t been confirmed yet, this game could potentially kick off the Week 1 schedule.
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According to John Ourand of Puck, the 49ers-Rams game could take place on Wednesday, September 9. That would be a controversial decision considering the Super Bowl champions – in this case the Seattle Seahawks – usually kick off the 2026 season.
Jan 17, 2026; Seattle, WA, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy (13) throws downfield against the Seattle Seahawks during the first half in an NFC Divisional Round game at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-Imagn Images© Steven Bisig-Imagn Images.
(© Steven Bisig-Imagn Images.)
Not only will the 49ers head over to Australia during the 2026 NFL season, they’ll also play a game in Mexico City.
The 49ers confirmed Wednesday that they’ll host a regular-season game at Estadio Banorte.
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“We are delighted to bring regular‑season NFL games back to Mexico City beginning in 2026, reaffirming our deep and long‑standing connection with fans across the country,” NFL Mexico director General Arturo Olivé said. “Estadio Banorte has hosted some incredibly memorable moments in our international history, and returning here underscores our commitment to growing the sport at every level in the market.”
Too much traveling for the 49ers?
Judging by the initial reactions online, NFL fans believe the 49ers have been given an unfair schedule for the 2026 season.
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“Yeah let’s have a division game in…Australia. Nobody asked for this,” one fan replied.
“This is crazy amount of travel. This seems to be a mileage test rather than a schedule,” a second fan said. “Recovery and depth are going to decide a lot of these games.”
“49ers having to do two international games in one year is tough,” another fan commented.
“Why is the NFL making the Niners play in Mexico and Australia in the same season,” a social media user asked.
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The 49ers proved this past season that they’re capable of overcoming adversity. Can they overcome nonstop travel though? We’ll find out in the fall.
This story was originally published by The Spun on Feb 18, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add The Spun as a Preferred Source by clicking here.