The AFL is reportedly set to do away with tradition by changing the Grand Final start time.
Aside from necessary adjustments due to Covid protocols, the AFL’s showpiece game has historically always begun at 2.30pm AEST.
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This year’s thrilling MCG final between the Dockers and Lions was staged at the usual time, and it has already been confirmed it will not be moved in 2027.
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That decision has received widespread praise — and was further validated following the success of the inaugural NFL game which began at 10.35am AEST and finished in early afternoon.
Yet it appears an evening Grand Final is still on the cards for 2028 as the arrival of Tasmania to the league is expected to push through a 5.15pm start time.
AFL expert Xander McGuire said on The Breakers: “I think we can almost lock and key that it’ll be a 5.15pm (Grand Final) the following year (2028).”
McGuire went on to claim he is “80” per cent sure that will be the case, before adding: “People in high positions at the AFL have alluded to me that when Tassie comes into the competition they want to revolutionise the fixture in many different ways.
“One of them being looking at the Grand Final, and they’ve found that 5.15pm slot for the prelims to be a massive success. It’s gone really well.
“They (the AFL) like it because you get the balance of the tradition while also getting the darkness to have a bit better of a show.”
The later time still appears unpopular among fans, with one reacting to the news by saying: “Literally nobody wants a twilight Grand Final, why is this being pushed on us so hard?”
While another added: “Once again demonstrating how much the AFL hates its own fans.”
A third reacted in a similar manner, saying: “Once again the AFL doesn’t listen to the fans. It’s a joke.”
And a fourth said: “Absolutely shocking if that happens.”
But others defended the move, replying: “I see no problem with this at all. Can’t tell you how many people I know miss the game because they’re at work. Still works for young families. Win, win.”
And someone else said: “It would be a much better time (5.30pm AEST).”