AFL boss backflips by scrapping controversial 'Opening Round' experiment
AFL CEO Andrew Dillon says the 2027 season will start with all 18 teams in action despite previously defending the staggered start.
AFL chief executive Andrew Dillon has rescinded the controversial Opening Round experiment for the 2027 season, returning to a traditional nine-game first week. The decision follows three seasons of the Opening Round, which aimed to boost the sport's popularity in Queensland and New South Wales. Despite record attendances and membership increases, the initiative drew criticism due to the uneven fixture list and early-season byes.
Dillon defended the experiment in March, stating that it was key to growing the game north of Victoria. However, the AFL has decided to scrap the Opening Round after consulting with fans, stakeholders, clubs, and broadcasters. The 24-round home-and-away season will commence with a traditional nine-game round across the country, beginning on March 17 or 18, just after the final day of the Ashes Test.
The finals series, including the grand final on October 2, will follow a five-week schedule starting in September.
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