The NFL is broadening its international reach to yet another continent.

On Wednesday, the league revealed plans to stage its very first regular-season game in Australia in 2026. This historic event will take place at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, known as the largest stadium in the southern hemisphere, with the Los Angeles Rams set to participate in the match.

“Taking this step to Melbourne, a stunning city with a rich tradition in sports, showcases our desire to grow as a global sport and boost our international presence,” stated NFL commissioner Roger Goodell. “Partnering with the Victorian State Government, Visit Victoria, and the Melbourne Cricket Ground, along with the Los Angeles Rams in 2026, we eagerly anticipate creating a memorable moment in what is an important market for the NFL and a major milestone in extending our global reach.”

The Rams and Philadelphia Eagles are the two NFL teams granted marketing rights in Australia as part of the league’s Global Markets Program.

Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie mentioned during the Super Bowl Opening Night that he preferred his team not to play in 2026, as it would mean giving up one of their nine home games.

“We support the global outreach of the sport,” Lurie stated, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer. “We take pride in having our Australian superstar (left tackle Jordan Mailata). We are well-positioned to play there; we are marketing partners with Australia and New Zealand, and we are one of the chosen teams. So if an opportunity arises for us to be the visiting team, we would wholeheartedly accept that.”

The league has been consistently increasing its international activities, with the Eagles and Green Bay Packers recently playing in the first game in South America during Week 1 in São Paolo, Brazil.