The Australian Football League (AFL) is gearing up for an exhilarating 2025 season, marking its 129th iteration. The season is set to run from March 7 to September 27, featuring 18 clubs competing at the pinnacle of Australian rules football.
Broadcasting Milestones
In September 2022, the AFL secured a landmark seven-year, $4.5 billion broadcast rights agreement with the Seven Network, Foxtel, and Telstra. This monumental deal, effective from the 2025 season, ensures extensive coverage of AFL matches across various platforms, enhancing the league’s reach and accessibility.
Coaching Changes
The 2025 AFL season witnesses significant coaching transitions:
- Andrew McQualter takes the helm at the West Coast Eagles, succeeding Adam Simpson.
- Dean Cox steps in as the Sydney Swans’ new coach, following John Longmire’s departure.
These changes are anticipated to bring fresh strategies and dynamics to their respective teams.
Season Structure and Innovations
The AFL has introduced several innovations for the 2025 season:
- Thursday Night Football: Matches are scheduled for 23 of the 25 rounds, including the first 16 rounds consecutively.
- Sunday Night Matches: Nine of the first 16 rounds will feature Sunday night games, offering fans more prime-time viewing opportunities.
These additions aim to enhance the viewing experience and accommodate diverse audience preferences.
Indigenous All-Stars Match
A notable highlight of the pre-season is the return of the Indigenous All-Stars match, held at Optus Stadium in February 2025. This event, marking the first since 2015, underscores the AFL’s commitment to celebrating Indigenous talent and culture within the sport.
Tasmania’s AFL Inclusion
In a historic move, Tasmania secured an AFL licence in May 2023, with plans to join the league in the 2028 season. This decision reflects the AFL’s dedication to expanding its footprint and embracing Tasmania’s rich football heritage.
2024 AFL Grand Final Recap
Reflecting on the previous season, the Brisbane Lions clinched their fourth AFL premiership in the 2024 Grand Final, defeating the Sydney Swans by a 60-point margin. Will Ashcroft’s stellar performance earned him the Norm Smith Medal as the best player on the ground.
Integrity and Governance
The AFL continues to address challenges related to integrity and governance. Recent developments include:
- Gambling Oversight: The AFL acknowledged shortcomings in monitoring online gambling activities, prompting initiatives to enhance oversight and protect the sport’s integrity.
- Management Breaches: Connors Sports Management was fined for breaching conduct relating to a Coates Talent League player, highlighting the AFL’s commitment to upholding ethical standards.
As the 2025 AFL season unfolds, fans eagerly anticipate thrilling matches, strategic innovations, and the continued evolution of the Australian Football League (AFL). The league’s dedication to excellence, integrity, and inclusivity ensures that Australian rules football remains a dynamic and cherished sport nationwide.