American Express is set to bring its global NFL partnership to Melbourne for the first time this September with a program of dining, entertainment, fan activations and Card Member perks designed to elevate the fan experience during the league’s historic first-ever regular-season game in Australia.
As the NFL’s payments partner, American Express is kicking off its first NFL season as presenting partner of the NFL Melbourne game’s halftime show headlined by the Jonas Brothers and the 3-day NFL Kickoff Festival at Melbourne Park from Thursday 10 to Saturday 12 September 2026.
“The NFL’s arrival in Melbourne is a real highlight for Australian sport, giving fans the opportunity to experience the energy and excitement of a regular season game on home soil for the very first time. As Official Payments Partner of the NFL, American Express is proud to help make this historic week even more memorable, bringing fans closer to the action through access, benefits and experiences that extend well beyond game day,” said Naysla Edwards, vice president of brand, marketing and member experience for American Express.
“Hosting our first-ever regular season game in Australia is a landmark moment for our fans here, and a reflection of the incredible passion we continue to see for the game across the market. This gives fans the opportunity to experience everything that makes the NFL special, from the intensity and excitement on the field to the entertainment and atmosphere that surrounds it,” said Charlotte Offord, NFL GM of Australia and New Zealand.
“Through our partnership with American Express, we’re creating even more ways for fans to be part of this historic occasion, helping deliver a truly unforgettable weekend and memories that will last long after the final whistle.”
At the American Express Fan Experience located within the NFL Kickoff Festival at Melbourne Park, fans can step inside the world of the NFL through an immersive experience inspired by players’ pre-game rituals.
Visitors can create their very own photo moment against a locker room-inspired backdrop, before taking to the turf for a series of digital drills that reveal which NFL position best matches their skills.
American Express will bring Ruben’s Deli to the NFL Kickoff Festival as its dining experience, with the Melbourne favourite serving US game day classics alongside local flavours, including LA Rams and San Francisco 49ers-inspired specials. Eligible American Express Card Members can access a priority lane and receive a complimentary dessert item.
American Express Card Members attending the NFL Melbourne game will have access to Gameday Radios to closely follow the action from their seats and around the stadium, while a number of lucky Card Members will enjoy an exclusive viewing experience for the Jonas Brothers’ halftime performance.
