NFL hands Rams key disadvantage for NFC West game that could affect the playoff race to begin next season
The Rams have a new challenge that won’t take place in the USA.
The latest news regarding the schedule for the Los Angeles Rams next season just steered into unique terrain for both players and fans. They’ll make NFL history, but it will also have a negative impact on their outlook for the season, too.
Rams will play 49ers in Australia to kick off 2026 season
According to both the Rams and 49ers, the first matchup in NFL history to take place in Australia is set. The Rams will be the designated “home” team against the San Francisco 49ers in the season opener for both teams.
Two playoff teams clashing, while also making some notable league history, is a great way to start the NFC West action next season, too. It’s one of the best divisions in football, and both of these teams had moments throughout this past season where they looked like Super Bowl contenders.
“The Rams, alongside the Seattle Seahawks, Las Vegas Raiders and Philadelphia Eagles, hold international marketing rights in Australia and New Zealand as part of the NFL’s Global Markets Program, an initiative that grants global marketing rights to clubs in markets outside of the U.S. to build brand awareness and fandom.” — Los Angeles Rams
Rams fans lose local home game with details of this announcement
Since Los Angeles has been a pointed as the home team, there will be one less legitimate home game for fans to attend at SoFi Stadium next season. That’s fairly notable on both sides. For the team, they have one less opportunity to play in front of a local crowd.
Then, for the Rams fan base, they’ll have to make drastic planning adjustments in order to go to the game in Melbourne – as opposed to heading to SoFi for this divisional clash.
Los Angeles will look to get out to a strong start versus a 49ers squad who split the season series with them this year. The Rams beat the 49ers, 42-26, in November, while San Fran was victorious in early October by a score of 26-23.
Australia is getting a close look at two teams that may be back in the playoff hunt once again by the time the postseason rolls around next year as well. Only time will tell.
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