It’s back: AFL releases Opening Round fixture for 2025

Opening Round will return in season 2025 with the AFL confirming the season-opening lot of matches.

The four fixtures for the first round of the campaign have been released with a Thursday night clash between reigning premiers Brisbane and Geelong to open the season.

The Lions will unfurl their 2024 flag when they host the Cats at the Gabba on March 6 from 6:50pm local time.

Sydney will then host Hawthorn at the SCG on Friday, March 7 from 7:40pm before Gold Coast and Essendon clash at People First Stadium on Saturday, March 8 from 4:15pm local time.

GWS and Collingwood, who met in last year’s Opening Round, will wrap it up on Sunday, March 9 at Engie Stadium from 3:20pm.

Opening Round 2025

All times local

Thursday, March 6
Brisbane v Geelong - Gabba - 6:50pm

Friday, March 7
Sydney v Hawthorn - SCG - 7:40pm

Saturday, March 8
Gold Coast v Essendon - People First Stadium - 4:15pm

Sunday, March 9
GWS v Collingwood - Engie Stadium - 3:20pm