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Netflix Wins 2026 NFL Opener, DOJ Scrutinizes Deal

5/8/2026

49 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Netflix Streams NFL

Netflix will stream the NFL opener between the 49ers and Rams on Sept. 10, 2026, from Melbourne Cricket Ground, requiring a subscription though local markets will carry it over-the-air.
NBC will produce the broadcast for Netflix’s $150 million-per-year Christmas Day games through Dec. 2026.
The league’s Thanksgiving Eve game negotiation, potentially worth $100 million, has prompted FCC and DOJ antitrust review of the NFL’s streaming deals.

Summary

NFL Australia Opener

The NFL will stage its first regular-season game in Australia when the 49ers face the Rams in Week 1.
Kickoff is set for 10:35 a.m. local time, because Melbourne is 14–15 hours ahead of U.S. cities.
NFL officials plan to finalize the schedule next week to satisfy network upfronts that begin Monday.
Matthew Stafford, the reigning MVP, will be listed as the home team for the Australian contest.

Summary

Shanahan Bemoans Australia

Rams coach Kyle Shanahan sarcastically complained about the 19-hour Melbourne trip, unsure if the team gains a day.
Shanahan alleged the Rams asked to face the 49ers in Australia to keep rival fans from SoFi Stadium.
The NFL’s 2026 international slate includes games in Paris, Rio de Janeiro, Mexico City, Madrid, Munich and London.
The 49ers will play a second Mexico City game in Week 11, their third appearance there.

History

Historical Context

After the NFL’s first regular-season game abroad—Arizona Cardinals vs. San Francisco 49ers at Mexico City’s Estadio Azteca in 2005, drawing 103,467 fans—the league built an International Series in London (2007) and added markets worldwide. Continuing that expansion, the Los Angeles Rams will become the designated home team for the NFL’s inaugural regular-season contest in Australia at Melbourne’s Cricket Ground in 2026.

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Netflix Streams NFL

Netflix will stream the NFL opener between the 49ers and Rams on Sept. 10, 2026, from Melbourne Cricket Ground, requiring a subscription though local markets will carry it over-the-air.
NBC will produce the broadcast for Netflix’s $150 million-per-year Christmas Day games through Dec. 2026.
The league’s Thanksgiving Eve game negotiation, potentially worth $100 million, has prompted FCC and DOJ antitrust review of the NFL’s streaming deals.

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