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How Roger Goodell reacted to 49ers head coach questioning playing NFL games in Australia

Originally posted on HITC | By Aikansh Chaudhary | Last updated Apr 11, 2026 1:26 PM ET

Roger Goodell has addressed concerns raised by San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan over the NFL’s plans to stage games in Australia, offering a measured response to the growing debate.

The discussion gained traction after Shanahan openly questioned the benefits of such a long-distance trip, particularly for a Week 1 game that would require significant travel across multiple time zones.

While he acknowledged the league’s global ambitions, his focus remained firmly on the competitive challenges it presents for a team.

That contrast between league vision and team priorities set the stage for Goodell’s response.

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Roger Goodell responds to Kyle Shanahan’s Australia concerns

Goodell addressed the situation in a clip shared via ESPN Australia, where he acknowledged Shanahan’s perspective while reinforcing the league’s broader goals.

He said, “Coaches have a focus on winning. That’s their number one job. And so Coach Shanahan is enthusiastic and a great football coach, but also someone who truly understands the importance of expanding our game globally.

“But his job is to win. His job is to play. And I always say coaches like to play at 1 o’clock and 4 o’clock — and don’t get in the way of that.”

The response reflects a clear understanding of the tension between maintaining competitive balance and pushing the NFL’s international growth strategy.

While Shanahan’s concerns stem from preparation and performance, Goodell positioned them as part of the natural mindset of any coach.

At the same time, he made it clear that expanding the game globally remains a priority, even if it requires teams to adapt to unfamiliar conditions.

NFL aims to balance competitiveness with global expansion plans

Goodell also emphasised that the league is aware of the logistical challenges and is taking steps to ensure teams are supported throughout the process.

The NFL commissioner added, “So we’re gonna make it a great experience for the team. That’s one of the things we focus on, everybody here, and so many others have focused on, make it a great experience for everyone, the team included.

“When they go back, they’ve got to make sure that they’re able to continue the competitiveness, because this game is real. This counts. And they’ll go on to Week Two as soon as they leave here.”

The comments underline the league’s awareness that international games are not exhibitions, but meaningful fixtures that impact standings and momentum.

By focusing on both experience and performance, Goodell signalled that the NFL is attempting to strike a balance between its global ambitions and the competitive integrity that teams like the 49ers are concerned about.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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