AFL 2026 Season Launches with Blockbuster Opening Round on Seven
The AFL 2026 season is set to commence with an electrifying Opening Round, headlined by the Sydney Swans taking on Carlton this Thursday night. In a highly anticipated matchup, Sydney recruit Charlie Curnow will face his former teammates, adding a personal twist to the clash. Fans can catch all the action live and free on Seven and 7plus Sport, with coverage starting at 7pm AEDT and extending beyond the final siren through Roaming Brian and Extra Time segments.
Pre-Season Entertainment and Comprehensive Broadcast Schedule
Before the on-field drama unfolds, Seven ramps up the excitement with pre-season programming. The Front Bar returns on Wednesday night at 8.30pm, featuring hosts Andy Maher, Mick Molloy, and Sam Pang. This is followed by Marching In, an hour-long documentary on St Kilda's pre-season, and the premiere of On The Inside, which delves into Collingwood's 2025 campaign. Thursday's coverage is hosted by Rebecca Maddern and Hamish McLachlan, with iconic commentator Brian Taylor providing play-by-play insights, supported by experts like Kane Cornes and Luke Hodge.
The action continues with Geelong versus Gold Coast on Friday night at 7pm AEDT, hosted by Abbey Holmes and James Brayshaw. Sunday features a marquee match between St Kilda and Collingwood at the MCG, with coverage led by Brayshaw, Cornes, and Nick Riewoldt. Additionally, The Agenda Setters debuts on March 9, offering post-match analysis on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday nights throughout the season.
Detailed Broadcast Times and Seven's Enhanced AFL Lineup
Seven has unveiled an extensive broadcast schedule to cater to fans nationwide. Key times include:
- Wednesday, March 4: The Front Bar at 8.30pm nationally, followed by Marching In and On The Inside with varying times across cities.
- Thursday, March 5: Sydney Swans v Carlton live from 7pm AEDT, with adjustments for different time zones.
- Friday, March 6: Gold Coast v Geelong live from 7pm AEDT.
- Sunday, March 8: Sunday Footy Feast at 12pm AEDT, followed by St Kilda v Collingwood at 7.30pm AEDT.
Seven's commentary team for 2026 boasts a star-studded roster, including Brian Taylor, James Brayshaw, and experts like Joel Selwood and Daisy Pearce. The network also introduces new shows such as Unfiltered with Hamish McLachlan and enhanced digital content on 7plus Sport, featuring highlights, retro matches, and kid-friendly commentary options.
With a full slate of footy programming, Seven ensures fans won't miss a moment of the 2026 AFL season, from live games to in-depth analysis and exclusive behind-the-scenes access.
