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AFL scraps Opening Round experiment after backflip

Published by YuToday Staff

0 views · 4 hours ago · 4:08 read · September 2, 2026

The AFL has scrapped its controversial Opening Round experiment after just three seasons, reverting to a traditional season start in 2027. CEO Andrew Dillon confirmed the decision, which ends the staggered format designed to expand the sport’s reach in Queensland and New South Wales. The move comes amid growing scrutiny of the experiment’s effectiveness and logistical challenges.

Key takeaways

The AFL has scrapped its Opening Round experiment after three seasons, reverting to a traditional season start in 2027.
The decision follows criticism of the staggered format’s effectiveness and logistical challenges.
The 2027 season will begin with all 18 teams in action, concluding with a five-week finals series.
The AFL’s reversal raises questions about future expansion strategies and growth initiatives.

Why the AFL abandoned the Opening Round experiment

The AFL’s Opening Round experiment, introduced to grow the game in northern states, has been scrapped after three seasons. The format, which delayed the start of the season for teams in Victoria, South Australia, and Western Australia, faced criticism for disrupting traditional scheduling and failing to significantly boost participation in Queensland and New South Wales. AFL CEO Andrew Dillon, who previously defended the experiment as key to expanding the sport’s footprint, acknowledged the league’s decision to revert to a more conventional start. The move reflects a broader shift in priorities, with the AFL focusing on consolidating its existing fan base while exploring new growth strategies. Industry analysts suggest the experiment’s mixed results and logistical complexities played a role in the reversal.

What the 2027 AFL season will look like

The 2027 AFL season will begin with all 18 teams in action, marking a return to a traditional format. The 24-round home-and-away season will conclude on Sunday, August 30, followed by a five-week finals series. The grand final is scheduled for Saturday, October 2, with the Gather Round in South Australia set for April 8–11. The league’s decision to abandon the Opening Round experiment aligns the season with other major sporting events, including a one-off Test cricket match between Australia and England at the MCG next year. This adjustment ensures the AFL season remains competitive in the sporting calendar while maintaining fan engagement.

Reactions to the AFL’s decision

The AFL’s reversal has drawn mixed reactions from fans, players, and analysts. Supporters of the traditional format argue that it simplifies scheduling and enhances the league’s consistency. Critics, however, contend that the experiment was necessary to grow the game in non-traditional markets. Clubs in northern states, where the experiment was most impactful, have yet to comment publicly. The AFL’s decision also raises questions about future expansion strategies, particularly as the league explores opportunities in untapped regions. Industry insiders suggest the league may pivot to alternative growth initiatives, such as grassroots programs or broadcast innovations.

How the AFL’s scheduling changes affect fans

Fans can expect a more predictable AFL season in 2027, with all teams kicking off simultaneously. The return to a traditional format eliminates the confusion caused by the staggered Opening Round, which often left fans in southern states waiting for their teams to play. The league’s decision also ensures that major events, such as the grand final and Gather Round, remain fixed in the calendar. However, the shift may disappoint supporters in northern states who benefited from earlier access to AFL action. The AFL will need to balance fan expectations with its broader growth objectives as it navigates the evolving sporting landscape.

What’s next for the AFL’s expansion plans?

With the Opening Round experiment scrapped, the AFL is likely to refocus its expansion efforts on grassroots development and broadcast innovations. The league has yet to announce specific plans, but industry observers speculate that initiatives such as youth academies, community engagement programs, and digital content strategies could take precedence. The AFL may also explore partnerships with local governing bodies in Queensland and New South Wales to foster long-term growth. The decision to revert to a traditional format suggests a cautious approach to expansion, prioritizing stability over rapid growth. Fans and stakeholders will be watching closely to see how the league adapts its strategy in the coming years.

What happens next

The AFL’s decision to scrap the Opening Round experiment marks a significant shift in its scheduling strategy. As the league prepares for the 2027 season, fans can expect a more traditional format with all teams in action from the outset. The AFL’s next steps will likely involve refining its growth initiatives, balancing stability with expansion ambitions. Industry observers will be watching closely to see how the league adapts its approach in the coming years.