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NFL fever hits Melbourne with Kiwi fans joining the party
Sport Nation • September 9th, 2026 3:05 pm
The NFL has put on an absolute massive game for Melbourne | Photo: Supplied
The NFL has arrived in Melbourne, with fans from New Zealand, Australia and the United States adding to the buzz ahead of Friday’s clash between the Los Angeles Rams and San Francisco 49ers.
A crowd of up to 100,000 is expected at the MCG, with supporters travelling from across the region for the heavyweight matchup.
“It is an absolute scene out here,” Laurie Horesh told Sport Nation's Millsy & Guy.
“The NFL has arrived and the fandom is on show.”
The excitement has spread well beyond Melbourne, with fans travelling from New Zealand and across Australia to be part of the occasion.
“We know they've got fans coming over from New Zealand, and every part of Australia coming into town,” he said.
San Francisco supporters have already taken over parts of the city, with a 49ers fan headquarters near Federation Square attracting strong crowds and creating an obvious team presence.
The event has also brought a distinctly American feel to Melbourne, with NFL colours and imagery appearing throughout the city.
“It’s a mutual love affair between the league and the people of Australia,” Horesh said.
He believes the game is about more than a novelty fixture, with the Rams and 49ers both carrying serious expectations into the clash.
“They sent absolute belter for us to sink our teeth into,” he said.
With fans from across Australasia joining the occasion, Melbourne is making a strong case as a host for future NFL events.
“Melbourne is putting a very, very strong foot forward, justifying why they were the choice.”
Listen to the full interview below:
