Qantas has signed a major partnership agreement with the NFL ahead of September’s blockbuster clash at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
The land Down Under will host its first regular season NFL match when the Los Angeles Rams and San Francisco 49ers take to the G on September 11.
Qantas has inked a deal to become the official airline partner of the NFL in Australia and New Zealand.
The national carrier will operate charter flights connecting fans from America and across the Asian-Pacific region with the blockbuster Melbourne matchup.
NFL Australia & New Zealand general manager Charlotte Offord described the partnership as “very exciting” as more international fans pour into the country.
“We’re thrilled to be partnering with Qantas as we continue to grow the sport across the region and work towards our first-ever regular season NFL game in Melbourne this year,” Ms Offord said.
“Australia is a significant growth market for the league, so to partner with a strong Australian brand such as Qantas is very exciting for us.
“The partnership will go a long way in not only benefiting our 8.8 million NFL fans across the region, but also in providing greater connection for our international fans who are looking to make the trip Down Under”.
Qantas Group corporate affairs officer Danielle Keighery said the airliner is looking forward to welcoming American fans to Melbourne, Australia’s sporting capital.
“Australia is a country that lives and breathes sport and we are incredibly proud to be part of bringing the first ever regular season NFL game here”, she said.
“More Americans are choosing to visit Australia than ever and these games are going to inspire a whole new wave of US fans to make the trip.
“We cannot wait for them to experience the warm Australian hospitality and everything that makes this country unique.”
Both the Rams and 49ers will also be brought to Australia aboard Qantas flights.
Tickets to Australia’s inaugural NFL showdown start from $95 and are available to purchase from Wednesday.
