The Australian Football League (AFL) has finally unveiled its much-awaited fixture for the 2025 season, and fans are in for a treat. With a particular focus on prime time slots, the league is set to showcase some of its most exciting teams and rivalries under the bright lights of Thursday and Friday nights.
Hawks and Bombers Take Center Stage
Leading the charge are the Hawthorn Hawks, who have been rewarded for their stunning resurgence in the previous season. The “Hollywood Hawks” are slated to feature in a staggering seven prime time games across the first 16 rounds, giving fans ample opportunity to witness their exhilarating brand of football.
Not to be outdone, the Essendon Bombers have secured eight coveted Thursday and Friday night slots, more than any other club. This is a clear indication of the league’s confidence in the Bombers’ ability to draw massive crowds and deliver thrilling performances.
Mouthwatering Matchups
The 2025 fixture is packed with tantalizing clashes that are sure to keep fans on the edge of their seats. Here are some of the most anticipated matchups:
- Hawthorn vs. Port Adelaide (Sunday night, Gather Round)
- Hawthorn vs. Geelong (Easter Monday)
- Western Bulldogs vs. St Kilda (Easter Sunday)
- Carlton vs. Essendon (King’s Birthday Eve)
Sunday Night Spectacular
In a bid to capitalize on the success of last season’s Sunday night experiments, the AFL has scheduled a series of marquee matches in this slot for 2025. These games, strategically placed around public holidays, are expected to draw record crowds and television audiences.
We are thrilled to announce a fixture that will build on this, while also being the fairest possible draw for all of our clubs as they look to chase the premiership flag.
– AFL fixtures boss Josh Bowler
Milestone Celebrations
The 2025 season also marks significant milestones for several clubs. The Western Bulldogs, Hawthorn, and North Melbourne will all celebrate the centenary of their entry into the competition, with each team set to host a marquee match to commemorate the occasion.
Dreamtime at the ‘G
As always, the annual “Dreamtime at the ‘G” fixture between Essendon and Richmond will take pride of place during Sir Doug Nicholls Round. This standalone Friday night blockbuster is a celebration of Indigenous culture and a testament to the league’s commitment to reconciliation.
Floating Final Round
In an effort to maintain the excitement and competitiveness right up until the end of the home-and-away season, the AFL has once again opted for a floating fixture in Round 24. This ensures that the most crucial matches with finals implications are given the spotlight they deserve.
A Season to Remember
With a fixture jam-packed with blockbuster clashes, milestone celebrations, and a renewed focus on prime time slots, the 2025 AFL season is shaping up to be one for the ages. As the Hawks and Bombers prepare to take center stage, fans across the country are eagerly awaiting the first bounce.
Will the “Hollywood Hawks” live up to the hype under the bright lights? Can the Bombers soar to new heights in their marquee matchups? Only time will tell, but one thing is for certain – the 2025 AFL season is set to deliver a spectacle like no other.
