The San Francisco 49ers appear likely to play an international game during the 2026 NFL season. Most speculation has centered on a return to Mexico City, which would mark the third time the 49ers have played a regular-season game there (2005 and 2022, previously).
"We will most likely give up a home game this season to play abroad, and Mexico is always number one on my list," 49ers owner Jed York said this week, noting that season ticket holders have been notified of the possibility.
However, fullback Kyle Juszczyk suggested another intriguing possibility. Speaking with Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area alongside his wife, Kristin Juszczyk, Kyle acknowledged that the 49ers are expected to play outside the United States—and hinted that Australia could be in play.
The NFL recently announced its first-ever regular-season game in Melbourne, Australia, to be played at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. One participant has already been confirmed: the Los Angeles Rams.
Because the Rams will serve as the host team, a matchup against them would allow the 49ers to play internationally without surrendering a home game during the 2026 season.
When Kristin asked whether the 49ers were "for sure" playing in Australia, Juszczyk smiled and gestured, clearly choosing not to say too much.
"But potentially," he added. "We may be in Australia, potentially, Week 1."
Kristin responded enthusiastically: "Okay, awesome. Aussie, Aussie, Aussie!"
That said, a game in Mexico City remains a strong possibility, as it's unclear how much Juszczyk knows about the situation at this point. Until the NFL makes an official announcement, the 49ers' international destination for 2026 remains a mystery.
Comments