The 2026 NFL season is scheduled to begin with San Francisco 49ers against Los Angeles Rams at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in Australia. NFL.com lists the Thursday 10 September match as an 8:35 p.m. ET kickoff and the league’s first game in Australia.
The fixture brings NFC West rivals together in an international setting. The NFL’s schedule guide notes that both teams reached the 2025 playoffs and highlights the expected return of several established players for the opener.
Kickoff times can change and vary by territory. Fans in the UK and Europe should check the NFL’s official schedule and their broadcaster for the final local start time and viewing details.