San Francisco 49ers fans have heavily outnumbered Los Angeles Rams supporters in Melbourne, Australia, creating a significant home-field advantage for the 49ers in their Week 1 showdown. The influx of 49ers faithful has turned local bars and the area around the Melbourne Cricket Stadium into a spectacle of red jerseys.
Hours before the game's kickoff, a substantial line of 49ers fans had already formed outside the team's designated bar at the stadium. This overwhelming presence has sparked discussions since the NFL announced the international matchup in February, with some questioning if the league intended to mitigate the 49ers' frequent crowd advantage, a phenomenon often observed when they play in Los Angeles.
San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan acknowledged his initial displeasure with the league's decision to stage the game in Australia, suggesting the Rams were "let off the hook." However, after a week in Melbourne, Shanahan's concerns about a lack of crowd support have diminished due to the warm reception the team has received.
The two teams have adopted different preparations leading up to the game. The 49ers arrived in Melbourne a week prior to the contest, allowing players to engage with the city and its offerings. In contrast, the Rams arrived in the city on Thursday. This extended stay has allowed the 49ers to immerse themselves in the local culture and build a visible presence among the Australian NFL fanbase.