Australian singer Cody Simpson will perform the national anthem before the NFL's first regular-season game on Australian soil, a Los Angeles Rams versus San Francisco 49ers clash at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Thursday, 10 September. Speaking to The Hit Network's Carrie & Tommy, the 29-year-old admitted to feeling nervous ahead of the appearance, describing the packed MCG as "pretty daunting", though he is no stranger to major sporting occasions.

More than 100,000 spectators are expected at the venue, with Simpson following the same approach he has used at previous high-profile events, including the 2024 AFL Grand Final, the 2022 Melbourne Cup and the 2016 Australia Day NBA fixture. He also praised the Jonas Brothers, who are performing the half-time show. Simpson, who has had five Billboard 200 entries and won Commonwealth Games swimming gold in 2022, called the occasion a "cracking" moment for Australian interest in American sport. Kick-off is scheduled for 8.35pm local time on Thursday.