AFL Finals Fixture 2025: Dates, Times, And How To Watch

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Hey guys! Footy fans, get your diaries ready! The AFL Finals Series 2025 is just around the corner, and it's shaping up to be an absolute belter. We're talking nail-biting finishes, spectacular marks, and the roar of the crowd that'll send shivers down your spine. To make sure you don't miss a single second of the action, we've put together this comprehensive guide to the 2025 AFL Finals fixture. We'll cover everything from the dates and times of each match to where you can catch all the live action, whether you're cheering from the stands or glued to your screen at home. So, grab your scarf, your mates, and let's dive into all things AFL Finals 2025!

What is the AFL Finals Series?

For those who might be new to the sport or need a quick refresher, the AFL Finals Series is the culmination of the Australian Football League (AFL) season. It's a four-week tournament involving the top eight teams from the regular season, all battling it out for the ultimate prize: the AFL Premiership Cup. The finals series follows a unique format, known as the AFL Final Eight System, designed to reward the higher-ranked teams while still giving every team in the top eight a shot at glory. This format creates a rollercoaster of emotions, with upsets, comebacks, and plenty of drama along the way. The journey to the Grand Final is a test of skill, endurance, and mental fortitude, making it one of the most exciting sporting events on the Australian calendar. The atmosphere at these games is electric, with fans decked out in their team colors, chanting their hearts out, and creating an unforgettable experience. Whether you're a die-hard supporter or a casual observer, the AFL Finals Series is a spectacle you won't want to miss.

AFL Finals Format Explained

Okay, let's break down the AFL Finals format in a way that's super easy to understand. Think of it like a mini-tournament within the season, where only the best of the best get to play. After the 23-round regular season, the top eight teams on the ladder earn a golden ticket to the finals. Now, this isn't your typical knockout competition – the AFL has a clever system that adds extra layers of strategy and excitement.

  • Week 1: The Qualifying and Elimination Finals: This is where things kick off. The top four teams get a huge advantage: a double chance. This means if they lose their first final, they get another shot in the following week. Teams finishing 1st and 2nd host Qualifying Finals against the teams finishing 4th and 3rd, respectively. The winners advance directly to the Preliminary Finals. Teams finishing 5th through 8th face off in Elimination Finals – lose, and you're out! 5th plays 8th, and 6th plays 7th. It's sudden death for these teams, adding a real pressure-cooker element to the games. The winners of the Qualifying Finals get a week off to rest and recover, which is a massive advantage heading into the next stage.
  • Week 2: The Semi-Finals: This is where things get really intense. The losers of the Qualifying Finals get a second chance, but they have to face the winners of the Elimination Finals. These games are high-stakes, winner-takes-all clashes. The energy in the stadiums during these matches is incredible, as teams fight tooth and nail to keep their premiership dreams alive. This round is crucial because it determines who gets to compete for a spot in the Grand Final.
  • Week 3: The Preliminary Finals: Only four teams remain, and they're just one win away from the Grand Final. The winners of the Qualifying Finals host the winners of the Semi-Finals. These matches are epic showdowns, with everything on the line. The atmosphere is electric, the tension is palpable, and the football is simply top-notch. This is where legends are made, and the stage is set for the biggest game of the year.
  • Week 4: The Grand Final: This is it – the ultimate battle for the AFL Premiership Cup. The two preliminary final winners clash in front of a packed house at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). It's the biggest day on the Australian sporting calendar, a spectacle filled with tradition, pageantry, and, of course, incredible football. The winning team etches their name in history, and the celebrations are legendary. The Grand Final is more than just a game; it's a cultural event that brings the nation together.

So, that's the AFL Finals format in a nutshell. It's a system designed to reward the best teams while creating plenty of excitement and drama along the way. Get ready for a wild ride!

Key Dates for the 2025 AFL Finals Series

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty and mark those calendars! While the exact dates and times for the 2025 AFL Finals Series won't be confirmed until later in the season (usually around August or early September), we can make some educated guesses based on the traditional scheduling. Generally, the finals series kicks off in the first week of September and runs for four weeks, culminating in the Grand Final on the last Saturday of September. To help you plan, here's a likely timeline:

  • Week 1 (Qualifying and Elimination Finals): Likely the first weekend of September 2025. This is where the top eight teams begin their quest for the premiership. Expect blockbuster matches with high stakes right from the start.
  • Week 2 (Semi-Finals): Usually the second weekend of September 2025. The losers of the Qualifying Finals face the winners of the Elimination Finals in do-or-die clashes. The intensity ramps up even further as teams fight for survival.
  • Week 3 (Preliminary Finals): Typically the third weekend of September 2025. The winners of the Qualifying Finals host the winners of the Semi-Finals. These are the games that decide who makes it to the Grand Final, so expect fireworks!
  • Week 4 (Grand Final): The last Saturday of September 2025. The biggest day on the AFL calendar! The two preliminary final winners battle it out for the ultimate prize at the MCG. It's a spectacle you won't want to miss.

Remember, these dates are provisional and subject to change based on the AFL's final scheduling. Keep an eye on the official AFL website and other reliable sports news outlets for the confirmed dates and times as they are released. We'll also be updating this guide as soon as the official schedule is announced, so you can always come back here for the latest information. In the meantime, start planning your viewing parties and get ready for some epic finals footy!

How to Watch the 2025 AFL Finals

Okay, footy fanatics, you've got the dates marked in your calendars, now let's talk about how to catch all the AFL Finals action! Whether you're a die-hard fan who wants to be right there in the stands, or you prefer the comfort of your couch, there are plenty of ways to watch the games. Let's break down the options:

  • In the Stadium: There's nothing quite like experiencing the electric atmosphere of a live finals game. The roar of the crowd, the tension in the air, the thrill of every mark and goal – it's an unforgettable experience. Getting tickets to finals matches can be tough, especially for the Grand Final, but it's definitely worth the effort. Keep an eye on the AFL website and Ticketmaster for ticket release information. AFL members often get priority access, so if you're a regular attendee, membership is a great option. Remember, finals tickets are hot property, so be prepared to act fast when they go on sale!
  • On TV: For those who can't make it to the games in person, watching on TV is the next best thing. In Australia, the AFL Finals Series is typically broadcast on free-to-air television (usually Channel 7) as well as Foxtel, a subscription-based service. Check your local guides for specific broadcast details closer to the time. If you have Foxtel, you can catch every game live and in HD, with expert commentary and analysis. Free-to-air coverage usually includes the big games, including all the matches in the final week. So, gather your mates, stock up on snacks, and get ready for some serious TV viewing!
  • Streaming Services: In today's digital world, streaming is a hugely popular way to watch sports. If you're a Foxtel subscriber, you can also stream the games live using the Foxtel Go app. Another great option is Kayo Sports, a dedicated sports streaming service that offers live and on-demand coverage of every AFL game, including the finals. Kayo Sports is a fantastic option for footy fans because it's affordable, has a user-friendly interface, and offers a range of features like replays, mini-matches, and expert analysis. Plus, you can watch on your phone, tablet, computer, or smart TV, making it super convenient. Streaming is a great way to watch the finals on the go, or if you don't have access to traditional TV.
  • AFL Live Pass: For those who prefer to watch on their mobile devices, the AFL Live Pass is another option. This subscription service allows you to stream every game live on your smartphone or tablet. It's a great choice for fans who are always on the move and don't want to miss a moment of the action. The AFL Live Pass is also a good option for international fans who want to follow the finals series.

No matter how you choose to watch, make sure you don't miss the 2025 AFL Finals Series! It's going to be an absolute cracker!

Predicting the Top Contenders for 2025

Alright, let's get our crystal balls out and do some AFL Finals predictions! Of course, it's impossible to say for sure who will be battling it out in the 2025 finals, but we can take a look at some of the teams that are shaping up to be strong contenders. Remember, anything can happen in footy, and that's what makes it so exciting, but here are a few teams that are definitely worth keeping an eye on:

  • The Reigning Premiers: It's always a good idea to start with the team that lifted the cup the previous year. They've proven they have the talent, the coaching, and the mental fortitude to go all the way. They'll be looking to defend their title and add another premiership to their tally. The pressure will be on, but they'll be a force to be reckoned with.
  • The Runners-Up: The team that lost in the Grand Final will be hungry for revenge. They'll be motivated to go one better in 2025 and claim the ultimate prize. They've already shown they can compete at the highest level, and they'll be determined to make amends for their Grand Final defeat.
  • The Rising Stars: Keep an eye on the teams that have been steadily improving over the past few seasons. They might have a young, talented list and a coach who's building something special. These teams can often surprise the established powerhouses and make a deep run into the finals.
  • The Perennial Contenders: There are always a few teams that are consistently in the finals mix. They have a strong culture, experienced players, and a proven track record. These teams know what it takes to win, and they'll be looking to add another premiership to their history.

Of course, there are always dark horses that can emerge and surprise everyone. Injuries, form slumps, and unexpected upsets can all play a role in shaping the finals landscape. That's why it's so hard to predict, and why the finals are so exciting! But these are some of the teams that are likely to be in the mix, and it's going to be fascinating to see how it all plays out.

Get Ready for an Epic Finals Series!

So there you have it, folks! Your comprehensive guide to the AFL Finals Fixture 2025. We've covered everything from the format and key dates to how to watch and who to look out for. The stage is set for another thrilling finals series, filled with drama, excitement, and unforgettable moments. Whether you're cheering from the stands, watching on TV, or streaming on your phone, make sure you don't miss a single second of the action.

Remember to keep checking back for updates as the official schedule is released. We'll be updating this guide with the confirmed dates and times, as well as any other important information you need to know. In the meantime, start planning your viewing parties, grab your team scarf, and get ready to roar! The 2025 AFL Finals Series is going to be one for the ages!