The AFL has decided to revert to a traditional round one format for the 2027 season, confirming that all 18 teams will start their seasons simultaneously. This change comes after the league’s Opening Round experiment, which aimed to promote the sport in NRL strongholds, faced criticism for creating an uneven competition and providing early starters with an advantage. The 2027 season will kick off on either March 17 or March 18, following a historic Ashes Test match at the MCG from March 11-15. This later start will also result in a rare October grand final, scheduled for October 2, marking only the seventh time in AFL history that the decider will be held outside of September. The league’s chief executive, Andrew Dillon, emphasized the importance of fan feedback in this decision, and the AFL is also set to announce pre-season and AFL Origin fixtures soon.
Why It Matters
The AFL’s decision to return to a traditional round one format reflects its commitment to maintaining competitive balance among teams. The Opening Round had been in place since 2024 but faced backlash for unbalanced competition and fan dissatisfaction, particularly regarding the need for byes. The 2027 season’s later start aligns with significant events like the Ashes Test, illustrating how scheduling can impact both sports and fan engagement. Additionally, the October grand final marks a noteworthy deviation from tradition, indicating the league’s adaptability in response to logistical challenges and historical commemorations.
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