AFL Finals 2025: Dates, Times & How To Watch

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Hey footy fanatics! Are you already buzzing with excitement for the AFL Finals Series in 2025? I know I am! It's the time of year when the stakes are high, the atmosphere is electric, and every match feels like a must-see event. In this article, we'll dive deep into everything you need to know about the AFL Finals 2025 schedule, including the dates, times, venues, and how to make sure you don't miss a single moment of the action. Get ready to mark your calendars, gather your mates, and prepare for some incredible footy!

Understanding the AFL Finals Series

Before we jump into the specifics of the AFL Finals 2025 schedule, let's quickly recap how the finals series works. The AFL Finals Series is a knockout tournament featuring the top eight teams from the regular season. It's a high-pressure environment where every game is critical, and only one team can emerge as the ultimate champion. The finals series typically spans four weeks, culminating in the Grand Final, the biggest game of the year.

The format of the finals series is designed to reward the teams that have performed best throughout the season. Here's a breakdown:

  • Week 1: Qualifying Finals and Elimination Finals. The top four teams from the regular season compete in the Qualifying Finals. The winners of these matches advance directly to the Preliminary Finals. The losers get a second chance. The teams ranked 5th to 8th play in the Elimination Finals. The losers are eliminated, and the winners advance to the Semi-Finals.
  • Week 2: Semi-Finals. The winners of the Elimination Finals face off against the losers of the Qualifying Finals. The winners move on to the Preliminary Finals, and the losers are knocked out.
  • Week 3: Preliminary Finals. The winners of the Qualifying Finals play the winners of the Semi-Finals. The winners of these matches advance to the Grand Final. The losers are eliminated, but they should hold their heads up high. They made it so far!
  • Week 4: The Grand Final. The two remaining teams battle it out for the ultimate prize: the AFL Premiership. This is the pinnacle of the season, a day filled with history, and a day we will never forget!

The AFL finals series is a thrilling spectacle of skill, strategy, and sheer determination. Understanding the format will help you follow along and appreciate the drama that unfolds each week. Alright, let's get into that AFL Finals 2025 schedule!

AFL Finals 2025 Schedule: Dates, Times, and Venues

Alright, guys and gals, let's get to the good stuff! While the official AFL Finals 2025 schedule isn't out yet, as the season is a ways away, we can make some educated guesses based on previous years. Keep in mind that the exact dates and times will be confirmed closer to the start of the season, so stay tuned for updates! But, we can safely assume that the finals will take place in September 2025, typically starting in the first week of the month.

  • Week 1: Qualifying Finals and Elimination Finals. Expect these games to be played on the first weekend of September. Venues will likely include the home grounds of the higher-ranked teams, like the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Docklands Stadium (Marvel Stadium), Adelaide Oval, and Perth Stadium. The exact times will depend on broadcast schedules, but you can typically expect games to be played on Thursday, Friday night, Saturday afternoon, and Saturday night.
  • Week 2: Semi-Finals. The following weekend, the action moves to the Semi-Finals. Again, the venues will be determined by the matchups, and these games will likely take place on Friday night and Saturday night. Think of the MCG, Adelaide Oval, and Perth Stadium as potential locations.
  • Week 3: Preliminary Finals. The penultimate week of the finals series will see the Preliminary Finals take place, with the winners securing their spot in the Grand Final. These games are usually played on Friday night and Saturday afternoon or night, with venues likely including the MCG and either Adelaide Oval or Perth Stadium.
  • Week 4: The Grand Final. And then, the big one! The AFL Grand Final 2025 will be played on the last Saturday of September, at the MCG in Melbourne. This is a must-see event, so you better get your tickets early, and get ready for an epic day of footy! The exact time will be announced closer to the date, but it's usually a mid-afternoon start.

Remember, this is all based on previous years' patterns, so keep an eye out for official announcements. To ensure you have the correct information, make sure you keep an eye on the official AFL website, and local news outlets.

Where to Watch the AFL Finals 2025

Okay, now that we have a general idea of the AFL Finals 2025 schedule, let's talk about how you can watch the games. The good news is that there are plenty of ways to catch all the action, whether you're at the ground or watching from home. The following are the main options you have.

  • Live Broadcasts. The AFL Finals are broadcast live on free-to-air television in Australia. The specific channels will be announced closer to the season, but you can usually find them on Channel 7 and 7mate. Make sure you check your local TV guides for the exact times and channels.
  • Subscription Streaming Services. If you prefer to stream the games online, you can watch them on various subscription services. These services offer live streaming of all the AFL games, as well as on-demand replays and highlights. Depending on your location, your options may include Kayo Sports, Foxtel, and Watch AFL.
  • Radio. If you're on the move or prefer to listen to the game, you can tune in to live radio broadcasts. Many radio stations across Australia provide live commentary and analysis of the AFL Finals. Check your local radio listings for details.
  • At the Stadium. Of course, the best way to experience the AFL Finals is to be there in person! Get ready to purchase tickets, because they are usually very difficult to come by, but if you're lucky enough to get your hands on some, you're in for an unforgettable experience. The atmosphere at the finals is electric, and there's nothing quite like being surrounded by thousands of passionate fans. Make sure to get your tickets as soon as possible, as they sell out quickly!

Tips for Planning Your Finals Experience

To make sure you have the best possible experience during the AFL Finals 2025, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

  • Buy Tickets Early: Tickets for the finals series are in high demand, so it's essential to buy them as soon as they go on sale. Sign up for AFL membership or follow the official AFL channels for updates on ticket release dates.
  • Plan Your Travel: If you're attending a game, plan your travel in advance. Consider public transport options, especially for games at the MCG and other major venues. Traffic can be heavy on game days, so give yourself plenty of time to arrive.
  • Check the Weather: Melbourne weather can be unpredictable, especially in September. Check the weather forecast before heading to the game and dress accordingly. It's always a good idea to bring layers, just in case!
  • Stay Updated: Keep an eye on the official AFL website and social media channels for the latest news, updates, and announcements. This is where you'll find the most accurate information about the schedule, venues, and any changes that may occur.
  • Get Social: Share your finals experience with your friends and family. Post photos, videos, and updates on social media, and get involved in the online discussions about the games. Football is always better together.
  • Support Your Team: Most importantly, support your team with passion and enthusiasm! The finals series is all about celebrating the best teams in the competition, so get behind your favorite team and cheer them on to victory.

The Excitement of the AFL Finals

The AFL Finals Series is more than just a series of games; it's a celebration of Australian Rules Football. It's a time for the whole community to come together, to cheer on their teams, and to share in the excitement of the game. The pressure is on, and it will be exciting to see how each team rises to the occasion. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual observer, the finals series has something for everyone.

The unpredictable nature of the finals, coupled with the incredible skill and athleticism of the players, makes it a truly captivating spectacle. From the thrilling contests on the field to the passionate fans in the stands, every moment is filled with drama, intensity, and emotion. The stakes are high, and anything can happen! That's what makes the finals so much fun.

Conclusion

So there you have it, a sneak peek at the AFL Finals 2025 schedule! Remember to stay tuned for the official announcements, but for now, you have a pretty good idea of what to expect. Mark your calendars, plan your viewing parties, and get ready for an unforgettable month of footy. The AFL Finals 2025 will be here before you know it. Enjoy the season, and may the best team win!