Cats to open 2025 against reigning premiers

THE Geelong Cats will open the 2025 AFL season in a Preliminary Final rematch against the Brisbane Lions.

Geelong will take on the reigning premiers at the GABBA on March 6 in the first game of Opening Round.

It will be the first time the Cats have featured in the AFL’s Opening Round concept, following its debut this year.

Geelong has won six of its past nine opening matches, most recently defeating St Kilda by eight points in Round 1, 2024.

The Cats’ most recent trip to the Gabba was also successful, coming up 26-point winners against the Lions in Round 6.

AFL chief executive Andrew Dillon said that the success of Opening Round earlier this year presented a unique opportunity for footy to continue to grow in popularity in the northern states.

“After a successful start to the 2024 season, we look forward to continuing the momentum in 2025 before we head into a blockbuster round of matches in Round 1.

“Footy is growing exponentially in New South Wales and Queensland – all four clubs saw more than 10 per cent growth in membership this past season and we have seen community participation numbers grow a combined 17 per cent this year.

“We continue to strive to have footy in every home around the country, whether that be playing, coaching, umpiring, supporting or volunteering and starting the season across Queensland and NSW will only amplify this desire.”

The 2025 Opening Round weekend will fall on the Labour Day long weekend in Victoria, presenting a great opportunity for fans to travel north to support the Cats.

Queensland-based Cats fans can purchase an Interstate Membership, which allows fans the chance to attend one Geelong game outside of Victoria in 2025, along with other perks such as priority access to finals tickets.

For more information, head to geelongcats.com.au