Blockbusters and double headers headline AFL’s epic run home

The AFL has announced the dates and times for Rounds 16 to 23 of the 2025 Toyota AFL Premiership Season, revealing a thrilling build-up to finals packed with marquee matchups, Friday night double headers and key rivalry games that could shape the top eight.

Friday night double headers will feature in Rounds 17, 20 and 23, forming a key part of the AFL’s broadcast and travel strategy in the second half of the season. The league hopes to boost primetime audiences while allowing clubs to manage recovery periods.

Round 17 begins with traditional rivals Carlton and Collingwood at the MCG, before attention shifts west to Optus Stadium where West Coast will take on the GWS GIANTS.

Round 20 features another double billing, starting with Essendon and the Western Bulldogs at Marvel Stadium, followed by the Sydney Derby as the Swans host the GIANTS at ENGIE Stadium. In Round 23, Essendon face St Kilda, while Fremantle meet Brisbane at Optus Stadium.

“This back end of the season fixture is aimed at maximising momentum into the finals, which is shaping up to be one of the tightest races in recent history,” said AFL Head of Strategy and Scheduling Josh Bowler.

Bowler said the first half of the season had delivered high-scoring contests, record attendances, and consistent Thursday night fixtures, all of which have contributed to strong television ratings and fan engagement.

“This season has delivered more Thursday nights than ever before,” Bowler said.

“Only Round 23 will not feature a Thursday game as we open with the inaugural AFLW re-match between Carlton and Collingwood to begin the 10th NAB AFLW season.”

Round 20 will also showcase state-based rivalries. The Sydney Derby headlines Friday night, before Saturday features the Q-Clash between the Suns and Lions, the Western Derby between West Coast and Fremantle, and the Showdown between Adelaide and Port Adelaide.

Two Grand Final replays also feature in the fixture. In Round 21, Collingwood hosts Brisbane at the MCG on a Saturday night, while in Round 22, the Lions host Sydney at the Gabba in the twilight slot.

Fans can also look forward to the return of the Kids Go Free promotion from Rounds 16 to 19, thanks to Coles. Children aged 14 and under will be granted free entry to matches during school holidays, subject to availability.

The Round 24 fixture will be confirmed later in the season, allowing the AFL to maximise crowd interest and schedule matches with finals implications in optimal timeslots. The round will include the rescheduled Gold Coast SUNS v Essendon match from Opening Round.

Download full fixture here – AFL_Fixture_Final