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Full Noise by SN
Running It Straight: 6pm TuesdaysWhy AFL chief is keen to keep Opening Round
Andrew Slevison • March 3rd, 2026 1:45 pm
It’s a concept that has been constantly questioned since its inception a few years ago.
Opening Round was introduced by the AFL to showcase footy in the northern markets of New South Wales and Queensland - to stir up some interest on NRL territory.
The league has ensured standalone prime time fixtures for the Sydney and Queensland clubs - the Swans, Giants, Lions and Suns - who have generally hosted well-supported Victorian teams.
The general footy public (and this is a sweeping generalisation) seems to be against the concept of Opening Round, preferring a traditional start to the season in mid-March with all 18 clubs in action.
But AFL CEO Andrew Dillon suggests Opening Round is going particularly well and plans to continue for the foreseeable future.
“This is the third iteration of Opening Round and what we have seen is memberships, attendances, viewership for our four clubs in New South Wales and Queensland grow double digits,” Dillon said on SEN’s Whateley.
“We’re seeing that again this year.
“Even looking at attendances in NSW last year of an average of over 25,000 which in and of itself is a larger average attendance than any other sport in the country.
“So we’re seeing a growth. The focus on NSW and Queensland is really helpful for awareness and getting off to a fast start with the momentum.”
This year for the first time Opening Round will feature a match in Melbourne with St Kilda and Collingwood to clash at the MCG on Sunday night.
“Pleasingly also we’ve had the opportunity to get access to the ‘G a week earlier than usual this year so that we can finish off Opening Round with a massive game,” Dillon added.
In future, could the league be in a position to field a full fixture of nine matches on this weekend if it chose to do so?
“This year it would have been difficult because Adelaide Oval and Optus Stadium are out of action,” the chief added.
“The same with Marvel Stadium because of the concerts that are on there.
“It’s not something that we’re ruling out in the future, but we do really like that focus on NSW and Queensland to start.”
The 2026 AFL season kicks off this Thursday night when Sydney hosts Carlton at the SCG.
Gold Coast then plays host to Geelong at People First Stadium on Friday night, before GWS and Hawthorn clash at ENGIE Stadium on Saturday twilight.
Brisbane Lions, the back-to-back premiers, host the Western Bulldogs at the Gabba on Saturday night, before the Saints and Magpies wrap it up at the MCG on Sunday.
Listen to Gerard Whateley’s full chat with Dillon below:
