Rams Coach Sean McVay Says He Won’t Play in Australia Again

After a 27-7 defeat to the San Francisco 49ers in Melbourne, Rams head coach Sean McVay expressed a desire to eliminate future Australian games from the team's travel plan. The comment, made in the aftermath of the loss, reflects concerns about travel fatigue and the team's performance on the road.…

By Felo News Desk · Published Fri, 18 Sep 2026 06:10:20 GMT

In the wake of a 27‑7 loss to the San Francisco 49ers at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay publicly stated that he would like the franchise to avoid playing in Australia again. The remark came during a post‑game press conference and was met with a mix of amusement and concern from fans and analysts alike.

What Happened in Melbourne

The Rams’ first game of the 2026 NFL season was held in Melbourne, a decision that marked the league’s continued push into international markets. The team struggled against the 49ers, falling behind early and never recovering. While the atmosphere in the stadium was praised for its energy, the Rams’ performance left many questioning the wisdom of the trip.

McVay’s Statement and Its Implications

During the press briefing, McVay said, “We’re not playing in Australia ever again, I hope.” He clarified that the comment was not a reflection on the venue’s atmosphere but rather a critique of the logistical challenges associated with the trip. The coach’s remark was seen by some as a candid admission that the travel schedule may have contributed to the team’s lackluster play.

McVay’s statement carries weight because the Rams’ international marketing strategy includes Australia as a key region. The franchise’s marketing team, which works to grow the brand’s presence in the Southern Hemisphere, may need to reconsider its approach if the team decides to drop the continent from its schedule.

Player Reactions

Quarterback Matthew Stafford was quick to downplay the impact of the long flight. “Not too bad, not too bad,” Stafford said. “Obviously, the travel was what it was. But no, I feel ready to rock and roll.” He emphasized that the team’s focus should remain on preparation for the next game against the New York Giants.

Receiver Davante Adams echoed Stafford’s sentiment, stating that the flight did not significantly affect his performance. “We can sit here and try to make excuses and say it’s because of the flight all we want. But at the end of the day, I didn’t feel tired. I didn’t feel crazy fatigued in the game and I felt good enough to go out there and put what we’ve typically put on tape,” Adams said.

Looking Ahead: The Giants Game

The Rams will face the New York Giants at SoFi Stadium on Monday night. McVay stressed the importance of staying focused and bringing an edge to the game. He acknowledged that the team would need to learn from the Melbourne experience and adjust its approach to travel and preparation.

While the Rams’ coaching staff may consider altering the international schedule, the decision will ultimately involve input from the franchise’s marketing and business teams. For now, the team is set to regroup and prepare for a domestic matchup that could prove pivotal in the early stages of the season.

Why This Matters

The Rams’ decision to potentially drop Australia from their travel itinerary underscores the growing debate over the NFL’s international expansion strategy. It raises questions about how teams balance global exposure with competitive performance and player well‑being.

For fans, the announcement signals a shift in the league’s approach to overseas games and may influence future scheduling decisions across the NFL.

In the broader context, the Rams’ experience highlights the challenges of maintaining peak performance while traveling across multiple time zones, a factor that could shape how teams plan their itineraries in the years to come.

Key facts

McVay wants no future Australian games
Players dismiss travel fatigue as major factor
Rams will face Giants next week
Decision may influence NFL international strategy

Why it matters

The Rams’ potential shift away from international games highlights the tension between global marketing ambitions and on‑field performance, offering insight into how NFL teams might balance these priorities moving forward.

Frequently asked questions

Why did the Rams play in Melbourne?

The NFL scheduled the game as part of its international series to expand the league’s global reach.

Will the Rams play in Australia again?

McVay has expressed a desire to avoid future Australian games, but the final decision rests with the franchise’s marketing and business teams.

Did the long flight affect the Rams’ performance?

According to player statements, the flight did not significantly impact their performance, though the team acknowledges travel fatigue as a potential factor.