Story perspectives

49ers get Subclass 408 visas for Australia opener

9/9/2026

Summary

49ers Arrive Melbourne

The San Francisco 49ers arrived in Australia on Friday to acclimate for their game against the Los Angeles Rams.
The Los Angeles Rams will leave Thursday night, fly 15,000 miles in 30 hours, and play Friday in Melbourne.
The 49ers completed a month-long visa process, securing Subclass 408 working visas for all personnel.
At Melbourne’s AAMI Park, the 49ers practiced with cold tubs while 60,000 lb of gear arrived by cargo ship.

Summary

Donald Skips Opener

Aaron Donald will sit out the Melbourne opener because the Rams cite limited rest and injury risk.
The Rams describe Donald’s contract as a cap-cash balance intended to extend their championship window.
Nick Bosa has been cleared to play after ACL surgery and recent tendinitis, defensive coordinator Raheem Morris confirmed.
San Francisco reports tight end George Kittle, receiver Mike Evans, and running back Christian McCaffrey are fully dressed for travel.

History

Historical Context

On October 2 2005 the Arizona Cardinals defeated the San Francisco 49ers 31-14 at Mexico City’s Estadio Azteca, drawing a record 103,467 fans as the NFL’s first regular-season game outside the United States. That milestone spurred the 2007 International Series at Wembley and, by 2026, the league’s expansion to Australia, cementing a global schedule for fans worldwide today.

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49ers Arrive Melbourne

The San Francisco 49ers arrived in Australia on Friday to acclimate for their game against the Los Angeles Rams.
The Los Angeles Rams will leave Thursday night, fly 15,000 miles in 30 hours, and play Friday in Melbourne.
The 49ers completed a month-long visa process, securing Subclass 408 working visas for all personnel.
At Melbourne’s AAMI Park, the 49ers practiced with cold tubs while 60,000 lb of gear arrived by cargo ship.

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