AFL Grand Final Stays Put: Traditional Afternoon Slot Locked In for 2026 and 2027
The AFL has officially decided to maintain the traditional afternoon timeslot for its coveted Grand Final, shelving discussions about a potential twilight decider for the 2026 and 2027 seasons. This move signals a commitment to what the league believes offers the ultimate Grand Final experience for fans and viewers alike.
Speculation had been rife that the marquee event might shift to a later start, potentially a 3:20 pm or even later, with the aim of enhancing broadcast appeal and potentially sparking greater international interest. However, the AFL hierarchy has reaffirmed its stance that the current daytime schedule is paramount to delivering the “best possible Grand Final experience.”
AFL CEO Andrew Dillon highlighted the importance of this decision in providing clear direction for all stakeholders. “We are already undertaking significant work on Tasmania entering the AFL in 2028, so it makes sense to lock in the Grand Final start time for the next two seasons and provide everyone with clarity,” Dillon stated. This forward-thinking approach aims to ensure stability as the league prepares for the expansion of its competition.
Dillon further elaborated on the AFL’s core mission: “Our role is to deliver the best possible Grand Final experience – for the 100,000 fans at the MCG and the millions watching on broadcast – and together with our Grand Final broadcast partner, the Seven Network, we remain committed to making it the biggest and best sporting event in the country.” He also expressed optimism about the current season, noting the strong start, exciting football, robust crowd attendance, and the anticipation building for upcoming events like Gather Round and Anzac Day.
The decision was echoed by AFL Commission chair Craig Drummond, who emphasised the value of certainty for the sport’s enthusiasts. “The Toyota AFL Grand Final is the best day on the Australian sporting calendar. It is the biggest moment in our game,” Drummond declared.
He acknowledged the diverse opinions surrounding the ideal start time for the season’s climax. “Everyone who loves footy has a view on the right start time for our biggest game of the year, and for at least the next two seasons it will remain in its traditional afternoon timeslot at the MCG.” The Commission’s agreement underscores a collective understanding of the need to provide fans and clubs with immediate clarity. “The Commission agreed it was important to provide fans and clubs with certainty now, while also allowing the AFL to continue to plan on our 19th club entering the competition in two years’ time,” Drummond added.
This decision ensures that the iconic roar of the crowd at the Melbourne Cricket Ground will continue to accompany the Grand Final under the familiar afternoon sun for at least the next two years. The AFL’s focus remains on preserving the cherished traditions of the sport while strategically planning for its future growth. The commitment to a daytime Grand Final is seen as a way to maximise the spectacle for those in attendance and to ensure the broadcast captures the full energy and atmosphere of this premier Australian sporting event. The league’s strategic planning now includes the seamless integration of Tasmania as the 19th AFL club, with the Grand Final timing decision providing a stable foundation for this significant expansion.
