Geelong’s run home confirmed in blockbuster fixture release

The AFL has released dates and times for Rounds 16 to 23 of the 2025 Toyota AFL Premiership Season, with Geelong Cats handed a balanced fixture featuring four matches at GMHBA Stadium and several key primetime clashes to close out the season.

Geelong will host Richmond in Round 17 on Saturday 5 July at 4.15pm before a home game against St Kilda in Round 19 on Sunday 20 July at 1.10pm. Round 21 brings another blockbuster to Kardinia Park, with the Cats welcoming Port Adelaide on Sunday 3 August in a 3.20pm clash on Seven.

In Round 22, Geelong will return to the Friday night spotlight, taking on Essendon under lights at GMHBA Stadium from 7.40pm.

Away matches for the Cats include a Round 18 trip to Sydney’s ENGIE Stadium to face GWS, a Round 20 clash against North Melbourne at Marvel Stadium, and a Round 23 visit to the SCG to take on the Swans. The Cats’ Round 24 game against Richmond at the MCG remains unscheduled but could carry major finals implications.

Elsewhere, the AFL confirmed Friday night double headers in Rounds 17, 20 and 23 to boost primetime audiences and better manage club travel and recovery. Blockbuster matchups such as Carlton vs. Collingwood and state rivalries like the Sydney Derby, Western Derby and Showdown headline the broader fixture.

“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,” AFL Head of Strategy and Scheduling Josh Bowler said.

Rounds 16–19 will also include the return of Kids Go Free, allowing under-14s to attend matches free of charge during school holidays, thanks to Coles.

The AFL will release Round 24 match times later in the season to align with ladder positions and maximise fan engagement.

Download full fixture here – AFL_Fixture_Final