Qantas Named Official Airline Partner for Historic 2026 NFL Melbourne Game

The National Football League (NFL) has today announced a landmark partnership with Qantas, naming the carrier the Official Airline Partner of the NFL in Australia and New Zealand.

The agreement specifically designates Qantas as the lead aviation partner for the 2026 NFL Melbourne Game, the first-ever regular-season NFL fixture to be held in Australia.

The match between the Los Angeles Rams and San Francisco 49ers will take place at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on 11 September 2026.

As part of the operational agreement, both NFL travelling parties will fly to Australia on dedicated Qantas charter flights, while the airline’s scheduled services will facilitate travel for thousands of international and domestic fans.

With an estimated 8.8 million NFL fans across the Australia-Pacific (APAC) region, the partnership aims to solve the logistical challenge of transporting a massive influx of supporters to Victoria. Qantas currently operates up to 40 flights per week between Australia and the United States, including direct links to the home cities of both competing teams: Los Angeles and San Francisco.

Commenting on the partnership, NFL Australia & New Zealand general manager, Charlotte Offord, said: “Australia is a significant growth market for the league.”

“partnering with a strong Australian brand such as Qantas is very exciting.

“The partnership will provide greater connection for our international fans who are looking to make the trip down under,” Offord said. 

Boosting Victoria’s Visitor Economy

The partnership is expected to drive significant “sports tourism” revenue for Melbourne. Qantas group chief brand and corporate affairs officer, Danielle Keighery, noted that more Americans are visiting Australia than ever before.

“These games are going to inspire a whole new wave of US fans to make the trip,” Keighery said.

Ticket Launch and Accessibility

Coinciding with the announcement, general access tickets for the 2026 NFL Melbourne Game officially went on sale via Ticketmaster at 10:00 a.m. today, Wednesday, 8 April.

• Standing Room: From $95
• General Seating: From $140
• Hospitality: Premium packages are available directly through the Ticketmaster portal.

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