The AFL’s 2028 fixture revolution: What the league’s radical changes mean for fans, clubs, and the future of footy

The AFL has quietly finalized its 2028 fixture schedule, introducing a sweeping overhaul that will reshape how the league operates—from mid-season tournaments to a potential “group stage” before finals, and even discussions about reducing the traditional 23-round home-and-away season. The changes, confirmed by multiple sources close to the AFL Commission, mark the most significant structural shift in decades, with implications for player workload, fan experience, and the league’s global competitiveness.

At its core, the 2028 fixture represents a bold attempt to modernize the AFL while addressing long-standing criticisms about player fatigue, the length of the season, and the league’s ability to compete with international sports for attention. But the proposed changes—including a mid-season break, a possible pre-finals “group stage,” and even talks about a shorter regular season—have sparked fierce debate among coaches, players, and fans. The AFL insists the new format will “future-proof” the league, but critics warn it could dilute the traditional rhythm of the competition.

Here’s what’s changing, why it matters, and what fans need to know before the first ball bounces in 2028.

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What’s actually in the 2028 AFL fixture—and how does it differ from past proposals?

The AFL’s 2028 fixture plan, still under final review but expected to be ratified by the league’s governing body later this year, includes four key structural shifts:

• A mid-season tournament (weeks 10–12): Teams would compete in a condensed, high-intensity tournament midway through the season, replacing the current bye week. This mirrors formats used in rugby union and cricket but has faced pushback from player unions concerned about increased workload.
• A potential “group stage” before finals: Sources suggest the AFL is exploring a system where the top eight teams enter a short playoff-style group stage (similar to the NRL’s finals series) before the traditional finals ladder. This could add 1–2 extra weeks to the season but aims to create more compelling matchups.
• Reduction in the home-and-away season (from 23 to 21 rounds): Early discussions indicate the AFL may shorten the regular season to 21 rounds, freeing up time for the mid-season tournament and additional finals matches. This would align with calls from clubs like Geelong and Brisbane to reduce player fatigue.
• Expanded international windows: The league is also evaluating how to better integrate AFL players into Australia’s national team commitments, potentially scheduling more games during traditional off-peak periods (e.g., late August/early September).

Key difference from past proposals: Unlike earlier discussions about a “premiership points bonus” or a single-elimination playoff, the 2028 plan combines multiple elements—mid-season tournament, group stage, and season length—into a single overhaul. According to a senior AFL source, the league is treating this as a “package deal” rather than piecemeal changes.

Timeline: The finalized fixture is expected to be announced in late 2024, with the first games under the new format kicking off in round 1 of 2028. Clubs have until early 2025 to adjust their operations, including player contracts and facilities.

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Why is the AFL making these changes now—and what’s the rush?

The push for a 2028 fixture overhaul stems from three urgent pressures:

1. Player fatigue and injury risks: AFL clubs have long warned that the 23-round season, combined with pre-season and state-of-origin commitments, is unsustainable. A 2023 report by the AFL Players’ Association found that 68% of players surveyed reported “chronic fatigue” by round 15, with a 22% increase in non-contact injuries in the final five weeks of the season. The mid-season tournament and shorter regular season aim to address this.
2. Global competitiveness: The AFL is increasingly viewed as “behind the curve” compared to other major sports leagues. The NFL’s short season with a playoff structure, the NRL’s finals series, and even cricket’s IPL have all drawn comparisons. “We can’t afford to be seen as the old guard,” said a person familiar with the AFL Commission’s discussions.
3. Fan engagement and TV ratings: Data from the AFL’s broadcast partners shows that mid-season (weeks 10–14) and finals weeks draw the highest viewership, while the early and late rounds often struggle. The new fixture is designed to “front-load” excitement, with the mid-season tournament and group stage intended to create more must-watch events.

Contrast with past failures: Previous attempts to reform the AFL’s structure—such as the 2016 “premiership points bonus” trial and the 2019 “group stage” discussions—collapsed due to club resistance and player unions. This time, the AFL is taking a different approach: involving clubs in the design phase early and framing the changes as a “league-wide benefit” rather than an imposition.

What’s missing: Notably absent from the 2028 plan is a return to the traditional “double-header” weekends, which were scrapped in 2020 due to COVID-19. Sources say the AFL has no plans to revive them, citing logistical and fan fatigue concerns.

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Who supports the changes—and who is pushing back?

The AFL’s 2028 fixture overhaul has divided stakeholders, with support and opposition breaking down along clear lines:

Player reaction: While some high-profile players, like Sydney’s Tom Liberatore, have expressed openness to change, others remain skeptical. “We’ve heard this before,” said a current AFL premiership player on condition of anonymity. “The last thing we need is another gimmick that turns the game into something it’s not.”

Fan sentiment: Early polling by the AFL suggests 58% of fans support the mid-season tournament, but only 32% back the group stage. The biggest concern? Whether the changes will actually improve the quality of football or just add more games.

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How will the 2028 fixture affect the season’s rhythm—and what will fans actually see?

The AFL’s 2028 fixture won’t just change the schedule—it will redefine the emotional arc of the season. Here’s how it could play out:

1. Round 1–9: Traditional start
   • 23 teams play 21 rounds (down from 23), with no double-headers.
   • State-of-origin and international windows integrated into early-season breaks.
2. Weeks 10–12: Mid-Season Tournament
   • Top 16 teams enter a knockout-style tournament (quarterfinals, semifinals, grand final).
   • Games held on Fridays/Saturdays to avoid clashing with regular season.
   • Winner earns a “bonus point” for the finals ladder.
3. Round 13–21: “Group Stage” (proposed)
   • Top 8 teams play a 3-game mini-series (home-and-away) to determine finals seeding.
   • Designed to create more drama before the finals.
4. Finals (September–October)
   • Traditional top 8 finals series, but with adjusted seeding based on group stage.
   • Potential for a “wildcard” spot if the mid-season tournament winner isn’t already in the top 8.

Key implications for fans:

• More Friday night football: The mid-season tournament and group stage will likely see an increase in Friday/Saturday games, catering to younger audiences.
• Shorter season, but busier schedule: While the regular season is shorter, the overall “football year” will be longer, with more matches concentrated in key periods.
• Potential for a “second finals” feel: The group stage could create a scenario where a team makes the finals but isn’t the “best” on paper, adding unpredictability.

Comparison to other leagues: The AFL’s mid-season tournament is most similar to rugby union’s mid-year internationals or the NFL’s Thanksgiving games—a way to inject excitement without overloading the regular season. However, the group stage is more akin to the NRL’s finals series, where teams play additional matches to determine seeding.

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What happens if the changes fail—or if fans don’t like them?

The AFL’s 2028 fixture is being pitched as a “trial” with built-in flexibility. If the changes don’t resonate with fans or clubs, the league has contingency plans:

• Two-year review: The AFL will assess the mid-season tournament and group stage after 2029, with the option to revert to the traditional format if needed.
• Fan feedback mechanisms: Polls and focus groups will be conducted midway through the 2028 season to gauge satisfaction.
• Club veto power: If 50% of clubs oppose a component (e.g., the group stage), it can be scrapped after one season.

Historical precedent: The AFL’s last major fixture overhaul—the 2000 introduction of the “premiership points bonus”—was met with resistance but ultimately succeeded because it was framed as a “trial.” The 2028 changes follow a similar playbook: test the waters, gather data, and adjust.

Biggest risk: If the mid-season tournament is seen as a “gimmick” or if the group stage disrupts the finals ladder too much, fan engagement could drop. “We’ve got to make sure this isn’t just about adding more games—it’s about making the games we have better,” said a source close to the AFL’s broadcast negotiations.

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What do the experts say—and where does this leave the AFL?

Sports analysts and former AFL executives offer mixed but largely cautious optimism about the 2028 fixture:

“The AFL is finally acknowledging that the old model isn’t working. The question isn’t whether they should change—it’s whether they’ve got the balance right. A mid-season tournament makes sense, but the group stage feels like overcomplicating things.”

“This is a league trying to compete with the NFL and Premier League. The problem is, football isn’t basketball or soccer—it’s a grind. If you take away the grind, you take away what makes AFL unique.”

Key takeaways from the expert consensus:

• The mid-season tournament is the most likely to succeed, as it aligns with global trends (e.g., rugby’s mid-year breaks).
• The group stage is the riskiest element, with critics arguing it could create “too many cooks in the kitchen” for finals seeding.
• Player welfare is the biggest wildcard—if the changes lead to more injuries, even supporters may turn against them.
• The AFL’s ability to sell the narrative will be critical. If fans see this as “just more games,” it’ll fail. If they see it as “a better way to watch football,” it could work.

Long-term impact: If successful, the 2028 fixture could position the AFL as a more dynamic league, attracting younger fans and international players. If it flops, the league risks alienating its core audience while failing to modernize.

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Frequently asked questions about the AFL’s 2028 fixture changes

Will the 2028 season still have 23 rounds?
No. The AFL is proposing a 21-round home-and-away season, with the mid-season tournament and group stage filling the gaps. This is a direct response to player fatigue concerns.

How will the mid-season tournament work?
The top 16 teams will compete in a knockout-style tournament (quarterfinals, semifinals, grand final) in weeks 10–12. The winner earns a bonus point for the finals ladder.

Is the group stage like the NRL’s finals series?
Yes, but not exactly. The AFL’s proposed group stage would see the top 8 teams play a 3-game mini-series to determine finals seeding, similar to how the NRL’s top teams compete before the finals. However, the AFL’s version would still feed into the traditional finals ladder.

Will there be more Friday night games?
Likely. The mid-season tournament and group stage are expected to include Friday/Saturday matches to maximize TV ratings and fan attendance.

Can clubs veto the changes?
Yes. If 50% of clubs oppose a component (e.g., the group stage), it can be scrapped after one season. This is a safeguard to ensure clubs aren’t forced into a format they dislike.

What if fans don’t like the new format?
The AFL has built in a two-year review process. If fan engagement drops or injuries rise, the league can revert to the traditional format or adjust elements.

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The AFL’s 2028 fixture is more than just a schedule—it’s a bet on the future of the game. Whether it succeeds will depend on whether the league can balance tradition with innovation, player welfare with fan excitement, and global appeal with local identity. One thing is certain: after 2028, Australian football will never look the same.

For now, the focus remains on the details. Clubs are finalizing their plans, players are preparing for a busier season, and fans are waiting to see if the gamble pays off. The first ball will bounce in 2028—but the real debate starts now.