Geelong will head to a new venue for Gather Round in 2026, playing for premiership points at Norwood Oval for the first time in the Cats’ V/AFL history. 

The Cats and West Coast Eagles will square off from 12.00pm (local time) on Sunday 12 April at Norwood Oval, the first time Geelong has played outside of Adelaide Oval for Gather Round since it began three seasons ago. 

It will be the 35th different venue that Geelong has played at for premiership points across their V/AFL history.

Geelong Cats Chief Operating Officer Marcus King said the Cats were looking forward to playing at Norwood Oval in 2026. 

ADELAIDE, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 10: Patrick Dangerfield of the Cats thanks the fans during the round five AFL match between Adelaide Crows and Geelong Cats at Adelaide Oval, on April 10, 2025, in Adelaide, Australia. (Photo by Mark Brake/Getty Images via AFL Photos)

“Gather Round is such an exciting fixture in the AFL calendar, and we’re thrilled to be able to be involved in the round at a new venue for us in 2026,” King said. 

“There are plenty of South Australian Cats members and fans who I know will be excited to see the team play in their home state and, as Gather Round always does, I know the match will attract a wide cross-section of footy fans from all states and all fanbases. 

“We’re looking forward to taking on the Eagles at Norwood Oval and embracing all that Gather Round has to offer.” 

The AFL is expected to release further 2026 Toyota AFL Premiership Season fixture details later this week. 

The Women's and Children's Hospital Foundation is confirmed as the Official Charity Partner of Gather Round again in 2026. 

ADELAIDE, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 09: AFL CEO, Andrew Dillon, Tom Stewart of the Cats, Taylor Walker of the Crows and Premier of South Australia, Peter Malinauskas pose with kids during a visit to the Women's and Children's Hospital on April 09, 2025 in Adelaide, Australia. (Photo by Morgan Hancock/AFL Photos)

Tickets go on sale for members on Wednesday 3 December, with general public on sale from Thursday 4 December.

As the official airline partner of the AFL and Gather Round, Virgin Australia is focused on offering value and choice for footy fans travelling to the event. To book your flight to 2026 Gather Round, visit www.virginaustralia.com.

Official accommodation partner ALL Accor offers fans access to a variety of options to suit all tastes and budgets, with more than 10 hotels and apartments across Adelaide. Travelling fans can choose from brands like Sofitel, Pullman, Peppers, Ibis and more. Visit ALL.com to book, plus unlock a special member rate by joining Accor's loyalty program for free.

Supporters unable to travel interstate can still cheer on their team from home in 2026 with a ‘Digital Plus’ membership, providing fans 12 months of Kayo to watch the Cats no matter where they play at a discounted price.

Find all 2026 Geelong Cats membership options here.