AFL Round 1 Fixture 2027: The Footy Season Kicks Off in Sydney!

The wait is almost over! The 2027 AFL Round 1 fixture has been announced, and footy fans have plenty to look forward to as all 18 clubs prepare for another massive season.

There's a major change to kick things off this year. Opening Round is gone, and the traditional Richmond v Carlton season opener has been replaced by a Wednesday night blockbuster between Sydney and Geelong at the SCG.

Nine games, 18 teams and five days of footy. From Grand Final rematches to fierce rivalries and fresh faces in new colours, AFL Round 1 promises to deliver plenty of excitement.

AFL Round 1 2027 Fixture: Dates, Times and Venues

Here's the complete fixture for the opening round of the 2027 AFL Premiership Season.

All times are listed in Melbourne time (AEDT).

AFL Round 1 2027: Nine Games to Kick Off the Season

Sydney Swans v Geelong Cats: Wednesday Night Season Opener

The 2027 AFL season officially begins at the SCG, where Sydney hosts Geelong in a rematch of the 2022 AFL Grand Final.

Two of the competition's most consistent clubs over the past two decades will be eager to make an early statement. With the spotlight firmly on Sydney, expect a cracking contest to launch the new season.

Fremantle v Western Bulldogs: Dockers Looking for Redemption

Thursday night takes us west, where Fremantle hosts the Western Bulldogs at Optus Stadium.

Following the heartbreak of the 2026 AFL Grand Final, the Dockers will be desperate to start their new campaign strongly. There's also plenty of interest in seeing Zac Butters in his new colours as Bulldogs look to take the next step.

Hawthorn v Brisbane Lions: Preliminary Final Rematch

Friday night footy returns to the MCG with a blockbuster between Hawthorn and Brisbane.

The Lions return to a venue that has delivered plenty of success in recent years, while the Hawks have revenge firmly on their minds following their controversial 2026 Preliminary Final defeat.

With Hawthorn strengthening its squad over the off-season, this promises to be one of the most anticipated matches of Round 1.

Richmond v Carlton: A Traditional Rivalry, A New Timeslot

Richmond and Carlton are familiar opponents when it comes to opening the AFL season, but 2027 brings a new twist.

Instead of the traditional Thursday night blockbuster, the Tigers and Blues meet on Saturday afternoon at the MCG.

Carlton enters a new era under its new coach, while Richmond will be determined to continue climbing the ladder. A sunny afternoon at the 'G sounds like a pretty good way to welcome footy back!

Adelaide Crows v GWS Giants: A Big Test at Adelaide Oval

Adelaide welcomes GWS to Adelaide Oval on Saturday afternoon, with both clubs eager to make a strong first impression.

The Giants enter a new chapter following several departures, while the Crows will be looking to build on 2026 and establish themselves as genuine contenders.

St Kilda v Collingwood: Saturday Night at the MCG

Saturday night brings another blockbuster as St Kilda faces Collingwood at the MCG.

The Saints have welcomed several new faces and will be determined to return to finals contention. Meanwhile, Collingwood enters an exciting new era with additions including Lachie Neale and Jesse Hogan.

With Scott Pendlebury no longer in black and white, all eyes will be on Nick Daicos as he takes to the MCG as a Brownlow Medallist for the first time.

North Melbourne v Port Adelaide: A Fresh Start at Marvel Stadium

Sunday afternoon begins at Marvel Stadium, where North Melbourne hosts Port Adelaide.

The Kangaroos enter 2027 with a new coach and plenty of young talent eager to take another step forward. Port Adelaide will also be determined to climb the ladder and establish early momentum.

Melbourne v Essendon: Two Clubs, Plenty to Prove

The MCG hosts Melbourne and Essendon on Sunday afternoon, with both clubs looking for a positive start.

After falling short in the 2026 Wildcard Round, Melbourne will be determined to push deeper into September. Essendon, meanwhile, begins a new era under a new coach, hoping to give its supporters plenty to cheer about.

West Coast Eagles v Gold Coast Suns: A New Chapter in Perth

The final match of Round 1 takes us back to Optus Stadium as West Coast hosts Gold Coast.

The Eagles showed improvement throughout 2026, but supporters will be hoping for another significant step forward from their young squad.

Gold Coast enters the season with veteran Scott Pendlebury adding experience and leadership to an exciting group. Could his arrival help the Suns return to the top eight?

AFL Round 1 Tickets: Be There When Footy Returns

There's nothing quite like the opening round of an AFL season. The anticipation, the rivalries, the packed stadiums and the excitement of seeing your team back in action.

Whether you're heading to the MCG, Marvel Stadium, SCG, Adelaide Oval or Optus Stadium, Ticket Merchant can help you find AFL tickets for the matches you don't want to miss.

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AFL Round 1: Frequently Asked Questions

When does the AFL season start?

The AFL Premiership Season traditionally begins in March, although the exact dates and opening fixtures change each year. In 2027, the season begins on Wednesday 17 March with Sydney Swans v Geelong Cats at the SCG.

Who plays in the first game of AFL Round 1 in 2027?

Sydney Swans and Geelong Cats will open the 2027 AFL season at the SCG on Wednesday 17 March at 7:30 pm AEDT.

Is there an AFL Opening Round in 2027?

No. The AFL has removed Opening Round for 2027, meaning all 18 teams will participate in Round 1 rather than having selected clubs play an earlier opening weekend.

Do Richmond and Carlton still open the AFL season?

Not in 2027. Although Richmond and Carlton have traditionally featured in the season opener, their 2027 Round 1 clash will take place on Saturday 20 March at the MCG.

How many games are played in AFL Round 1?

A standard AFL round featuring all 18 clubs consists of nine matches. Each club plays one opponent, although the AFL can adjust the structure of its opening rounds between seasons.

Where are AFL Round 1 matches played?

AFL Round 1 matches are hosted at stadiums across Australia, depending on the annual fixture. In 2027, games will be played at the SCG, Optus Stadium, MCG, Adelaide Oval and Marvel Stadium.

Where can I buy AFL Round 1 tickets?

You can explore available AFL Round 1 tickets through Ticket Merchant, with options across major AFL venues and matches. Every purchase is backed by our 100% Buyer Guarantee.

When is the AFL Round 1 fixture announced?

The AFL generally releases its fixture ahead of the upcoming season, giving supporters time to plan interstate trips, organise accommodation and secure tickets. Exact announcement dates vary each year.

Get Ready for Another Massive AFL Season

The first bounce of a new AFL season always brings fresh hope. New recruits, new coaches, emerging stars and another opportunity for every club to chase premiership glory.

Whether you're planning to attend Round 1 or looking ahead to the biggest AFL matches of the year, Ticket Merchant is here to help you get amongst the action.

Explore AFL tickets at Ticket Merchant and get ready for another unforgettable season of footy!