The San Francisco 49ers will kick off the 2026 season in unprecedented fashion, heading halfway across the world for a historic opener against the Los Angeles Rams.
In a move that underscores the NFL’s growing global footprint, San Francisco will take the field at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground, marking the league’s first-ever regular season game in Australia and a defining moment for the franchise.
Here’s everything you need to know about kickoff time, ticket availability, and how fans can be part of this landmark event.
Melbourne, we’ll see you soon 😏
📰: https://t.co/AQ3dTMoFP0 pic.twitter.com/3mMpq3NWlL
— San Francisco 49ers (@49ers) March 25, 2026
More on the 49ers vs Rams matchup in Australia
Courtesy of the San Francisco 49ers
The San Francisco 49ers will open the 2026 season on the international stage, taking on the Los Angeles Rams in the NFL’s first-ever regular-season game in Melbourne, Australia.
The Week 1 matchup is set for Thursday, Sept. 10 at 5:35 p.m. PT at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Due to the 17-hour time difference, the 49ers will take the field Friday at 10:35 a.m. (AEST) in Melbourne, with the game airing live Thursday evening on the West Coast.
The game is part of the league’s 2026 kickoff slate, which begins the night prior on Wednesday, Sept. 9 at 5:20 p.m. PT with the defending Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks hosting the season opener.
San Francisco’s trip to Melbourne marks a historic moment for the franchise and is part of the NFL’s continued global expansion. Hospitality packages for the Melbourne game will be available beginning Monday, April 6, followed by general public ticket sales on Tuesday, April 7 via Ticketmaster.
Fans can also explore ticket and travel packages through On Location. If you placed a Priority Access deposit through On Location, be sure to check your inbox for instructions on selecting your ticket and travel package.
If you did not place a Priority Access deposit, you can place an Access Guaranteed deposit at https://OnLocationExp.com/49ersDownUnder to join the second round of package selection ahead of the public on-sale on Wednesday, April 1st.
More 49ers & NFL content from Sactown Sports
Upcoming NFL Offseason Schedule
Monday, March 9 – Wednesday, March 11 – Free agent negotiation period
Wednesday, March 11 – 2026 League Year begins & free agency opens
Sunday, March 29 – Wednesday, April 1 – NFL Annual League Meeting
Thursday, April 23 – Saturday, April 25 – 2026 NFL Draft
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