The AFL has announced that tickets for 2026 Opening Round will go on sale today from 10am (local venue time) today, inviting fans to Get In On It as footy returns for another memorable season.

On Friday the 6th of March, Geelong will kick off their season with a blockbuster clash against the Gold Coast Suns, as the Cats head to People First Stadium for their inaugural Opening Round match. 

It will be the first chance for Cats fans to get a glimpse of their team in action during the 2026 season, while the Suns will also unveil new recruit Christian Petracca. 

AFL CEO Andrew Dillon said Opening Round will capture the emotion of footy fans across the country to kickstart the season.

“Footy is back and Opening Round is about more than just about what happens on-field, it’s about capturing that feeling and excitement that the best game in the world is back,” Dillon said.

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“To bring a marquee Sunday night game to Melbourne on the eve of a public holiday for the first time is exciting, the city will be buzzing, and it is a huge opportunity to leverage the global visitation from the Grand Prix, welcome new fans, and insert the AFL into the conversation on one of the biggest weekends on Melbourne’s sporting calendar. 

“With record participation in 2025 and growth across the country, the game has never been stronger. Footy is unique and means something different to everyone and the opening 11 days of the season is where that feeling comes alive again.”

Don't wait for footy to be back. Tickets are on sale Wednesday 10 December.

10am (local venue time) – Club Members
12pm (local venue time)– AFL Reserve (MCG only)
2pm (local venue time) – General Public

Click Here to view ticketing information for Geelong's clash with Gold Coast.