Feb 8, 2026; Santa Clara, CA, USA; NBC Sports analyst Kyle Shanahan prior to the New England Patriots game against the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl LX at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

49ers’ Australia Opener Date Reportedly Set

Originally posted on San Francisco 49ers on SI
By Henry Cheal | Last updated Mar 18, 2026 12:00 PM ET

The San Francisco 49ers’ first game of the 2026 NFL season now has a reported confirmed date and time.

It was previously revealed that the San Francisco 49ers will open their season against divisional rivals the Los Angeles Rams at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in Australia as part of the NFL’s international program.

While earlier speculation suggested it could be the first game of the season due to the 16-hour flight for both teams and an 18-hour time zone difference between Australia and the United States, it has now been reported that the matchup will take place on Thursday Night Football in Week 1, which will fall on Friday in Australia.

The Seattle Seahawks will likely begin their season on a Wednesday in the United States, whether at home or away, giving them a natural recovery advantage over the 49ers and Rams.

Little to no rest time for 49ers

Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images

Assuming the season follows its usual format, with three preseason games and a week’s break before the regular season, it will be a demanding task for the 49ers to travel to Australia, acclimatize, play, go home and then return in time to be ready for Week 2.

The prospect of playing in Australia is undoubtedly intriguing. It represents a new market, and the game continues to grow rapidly across the globe. However, there has been no confirmation on whether the 49ers will receive additional recovery time to offset the demands of such long-distance travel.

Their schedule is already expected to be challenging, with away games spread across the United States, as well as a second international fixture in Mexico. General manager John Lynch revealed at the NFL Combine that the team will be given resources to manage the demands of the schedule, though the extent of that support remains unclear.

At a minimum, both the 49ers and the Rams should be given as many additional days of rest as possible early in the season. With both teams coming off playoff appearances and boasting talented rosters on both sides of the ball, the focus should remain on competitive balance.

However, the schedule continues to grow more demanding each year, and this may be a step too far if it prioritizes revenue over on-field performance.

It is also a concern that the 49ers received poor grades for their training staff and facilities last season. As a result, getting off to a strong start with a win in Australia is more important than ever.

This article first appeared on San Francisco 49ers on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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