The San Francisco 49ers added another international game to their 2026 NFL schedule. They will kick off the season against the Los Angeles Rams in Melbourne, Australia, potentially on September 9 or 10.
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On Wednesday, the NFC West team announced “another stop on their world tour,” letting fans know they are headed to the first Mexico City game since 2022. This will be the sixth game hosted in the city.
“We are thrilled to return to Mexico and to play in front of one of the most passionate fan bases in the league,” 49ers CEO Al Guido said in an NFL press release. “After two unforgettable experiences in 2005 and 2022 in Mexico City, we’re excited to reunite with the Mexico Faithful and look forward to the energy local fans will bring in creating a true home-field advantage for our team abroad.”
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49ers welcomed with open arms in Mexico City
December 30, 2024; Santa Clara, California, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy (13) passes the football against the Detroit Lions during the first quarter at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
The 49ers played in the first international regular-season game in Mexico City in 2005. It took them 17 years to return. They faced the Arizona Cardinals both times, winning one and losing another. Their opponent will be announced at a later date, when the league releases the full schedule.
“We’re delighted to host the San Francisco 49ers once again in Mexico City for the 2026 NFL Mexico Game,” said NFL Mexico director general Arturo Olivé in a statement. “Returning to Estadio Banorte highlights our strong, ongoing commitment to Mexico. Few places generate the kind of energy we see here, and we look forward to being back in a country that plays such a meaningful role in the growth of our game.”
San Francisco lost to the eventual Super Bowl winners Seattle Seahawks in the divisional round of the 2025 NFL playoffs. They showed flashes last season, and 2026 might be a make-or-break campaign for them.
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