"SANTA CLARA The globe-trotting 49ers will make NFL history next season by playing international games on two different continents, including hosting a game in Mexico City, the NFL announced Wednesday morning. Compounding the 49ers' worldwide travel itinerary is a season opener against the Los Angeles Rams in the league's Australian debut in Melbourne. The multi-continent international scenario does not sit well with several 49ers, who also will play games from coast to coast in the United States."
"That's not fair. The NFL, I feel, is doing us a disservice, fullback Kyle Juszczyk said two weeks ago in an exclusive interview with this news organization. Because if we're going to talk about health and safety, to do two international games like that, it is almost like playing three games in 13 days, which is how the 49ers squeezed in the end of this past regular season."
"We are thrilled to return to Mexico and to play in front of one of the most passionate fan bases in the league, Guido said in an NFL-issued statement. After two unforgettable experiences in 2005 and 2022 in Mexico City, we're excited to reunite with the Mexico Faithful and look forward to the energy local fans will bring in creating a true home-field advantage for our team abroad."
The San Francisco 49ers will play regular-season international games on two continents next season, including a Mexico City home game and a season opener in Melbourne, Australia against the Los Angeles Rams. Several players expressed concern about the travel load and health impacts, noting the schedule could resemble playing three games in 13 days. Fullback Kyle Juszczyk called the decision unfair and said it could be a disservice to player safety. Team CEO Al Guido expressed enthusiasm for returning to Mexico, citing passionate fans and memorable 2005 and 2022 experiences. The league indicated a December return to Mexico; no date or opponent was announced.
Read at www.mercurynews.com
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