The Australian Football League (AFL) has confirmed the continuation of its Opening Round and State of Origin concepts, while exploring the inclusion of Australian rules football as an exhibition sport at the Brisbane 2032 Olympics. These announcements come alongside reported concerns from multiple AFL clubs regarding the competitive fairness of the Opening Round fixture and discussions around its future expansion. AFL officials have also provided updates on rule changes, global strategy, and the upcoming Tasmanian Devils team.
AFL Confirms Opening Round & State of Origin, Eyes 2032 Olympics Bid
Opening Round Developments and Club Feedback
AFL Chief Operating Officer Tom Harley and CEO Andrew Dillon have confirmed the continuation of the league's Opening Round. The initiative is intended to support the competition's growth, particularly in northern markets, with a goal of making AFL "Australia's game." For the third consecutive year, Sydney is scheduled to host the season-opener, featuring Sydney against Carlton at the SCG on March 5. Gold Coast, GWS, and the Brisbane Lions will also host matches during the first week for the third successive season.
The 2024 Opening Round included a new fixture in Melbourne, with St Kilda playing Collingwood at the MCG. Harley addressed concerns that a Melbourne fixture might detract from the focus on northern markets, stating that previous season openers in Sydney contributed to strong membership and attendance in those regions.
"The focus on New South Wales and Queensland has contributed to record attendances for Round One over the past two years, with over 400,000 attendees annually, including 451,000 last year," Dillon highlighted, citing record membership and crowds for the Swans, Giants, Lions, and Suns following the Opening Round.
Despite these reported successes, multiple AFL clubs have expressed concerns to the league's leadership regarding the Opening Round format. Club chief executives reportedly conveyed frustrations to Andrew Dillon during a recent meeting. Concerns have been raised about the competitive fairness of the fixture, with some, like Fremantle coach Justin Longmuir, noting a perceived advantage for clubs participating in Opening Round. Additionally, Hawthorn's 18-day break early in their campaign sparked discussion.
The 2024 Opening Round marked the first time games were played outside Sydney and Brisbane, and saw 10 out of 18 clubs participate, an increase from previous years.
The AFL views 'Round 0' as an evolving concept, with discussions suggesting a potential expansion of participation, possibly involving all 18 clubs within the next two years. Stadium availability is identified as a critical consideration for future planning.
State of Origin and Future Fixture Experimentation
Both Tom Harley and Andrew Dillon have indicated a future for State of Origin games. Dillon stated the concept is expected to evolve over the next three to five years and will remain part of the AFL calendar. He reported positive feedback from players involved in the recent Western Australia versus Victoria game, noting that players expressed a preference for extended camp times.
Dillon views pre-season events like the All Stars and Origin as effective, though he did not confirm plans for an Allies team. Harley noted public interest following the recent Western Australia-Victoria match. The league intends to continue experimenting with its fixture in future seasons.
Olympic Ambitions and Global Strategy
AFL CEO Andrew Dillon has outlined ambitions for Australian rules football to feature in the Brisbane 2032 Olympics. He stated that high-level discussions have taken place with Brisbane 2032 boss Andrew Liveris. Dillon cited the 1956 Melbourne Olympics, where Australian rules football was an exhibition sport, as a precedent for potential inclusion.
Dillon also commented on the AFL's global strategy following his visit to India in January. He observed potential for the sport in India, noting close to 10,000 boys and girls participating in the game across 10 states in national championships. He did not confirm plans for AFL games to be played internationally.
Rule Changes and Tasmania Devils Update
Regarding recent rule changes, Andrew Dillon expressed a positive outlook, stating that the changes are intended to increase game speed and keep the ball in motion longer, aligning with fan preferences. However, some players, including Melbourne ruck Max Gawn, have voiced concerns about these changes.
The AFL's planned introduction of the Tasmania Devils in 2028 was also noted. The Daicos family, including Peter, Nick, and Josh Daicos, reportedly visited Tasmania coinciding with the Tasmanian Devils' VFL debut against Coburg. The VFL match in North Hobart was a sellout, with approximately 11,000 attendees. This visit occurred amidst speculation linking Nick Daicos, who is contracted to Collingwood until 2029, to Tasmania ahead of the 19th AFL club's entry. Sources suggest he prioritizes team success, and the timing of the family's trip was described as a coincidence.