The West Australian Football League has unveiled its fixture list for the 2026 season, setting the stage for another thrilling year of state-level Aussie Rules action. One of the most anticipated storylines will see East Perth forced to bide their time for a chance at redemption against their 2025 grand final conquerors, South Fremantle.
Grand Final Rematch Set for Mid-Season Showdown
The fixture reveals that the highly anticipated grand final rematch between East Perth and South Fremantle is scheduled for round 10. This means Royals fans will need to wait until the middle of the season to see their team get another crack at the Bulldogs, who defeated them in the 2025 decider. The clash is sure to be a blockbuster event, carrying significant emotional weight and early season ladder implications.
In other notable fixtures, the traditional Anzac Day round will feature a marquee match-up between Perth and West Perth. This annual contest continues to be a cornerstone of the WAFL calendar, honouring the Anzac spirit with fierce on-field rivalry.
Key Dates and Opening Rounds
The 2026 WAFL season is set to kick off in the first weekend of April. The opening round will deliver several compelling contests right from the first bounce.
The round 1 match-ups are as follows:
- East Fremantle will host Claremont.
- Subiaco faces off against Swan Districts.
- Perth takes on Peel Thunder.
- East Perth meets West Perth.
- South Fremantle has the opening-round bye.
This schedule ensures a powerful start to the season, with several historic rivalries ignited immediately. The league has structured the fixture to maintain competitive balance and fan interest throughout the home-and-away campaign.
Fixture Structure and Team Preparations
The release of the fixture allows the nine competing clubs to begin detailed planning for the 2026 season. Teams will now map out their training loads, travel arrangements, and tactical preparations based on their specific draw. For East Perth, the path to potential premiership glory now has a clear marker in round 10, providing a tangible target for their pre-season and early-season focus.
The WAFL continues to be a vital pathway and competition in Australian football, showcasing elite talent and fostering deep community connections across Western Australia. The 2026 fixture promises another chapter of intense rivalry, skilled athleticism, and passionate support from loyal fans.
