AFLW Grand Final Venues Locked In: No Stadium Upgrades Planned, Despite Crowds
The Australian Football League (AFL) has confirmed that the venues for this season’s AFLW grand finals across all states will remain unchanged, regardless of crowd numbers or demand. This decision comes amidst ongoing discussions and debate surrounding venue utilisation and capacity within the league and with the players’ union.
Despite impressive attendance figures and growing popularity of the AFLW competition, the AFL has opted to stick with the existing venues. This means that even if a particular state experiences significantly higher crowd numbers than anticipated, or a larger stadium is available, the grand final will not be relocated. The league cited a commitment to consistency and the established agreements with each state as key factors in their decision.
The decision isn’t likely to silence critics who have long argued that larger venues would enhance the atmosphere and overall fan experience for the AFLW grand final. Many believe that a bigger stadium would allow for greater ticket sales, increased revenue, and a more spectacular showcase of the sport. However, the AFL maintains that the current venues provide a unique and intimate atmosphere that contributes to the excitement of the event.
“We’re incredibly proud of the growth and success of the AFLW competition,” said an AFL spokesperson. “We’ve worked closely with each state to secure venues that are well-suited to the grand final and provide a fantastic experience for fans. While we always consider feedback and explore options for improvement, we’ve made a conscious decision to maintain consistency in our venue arrangements for the foreseeable future.”
The issue of venue utilisation has been a recurring point of contention within the AFL. The league faces the challenge of balancing the desire for larger crowds with the need to support existing stadium infrastructure and maintain a positive relationship with state governments. The players' union has also expressed concerns about player welfare and the suitability of some venues for AFLW matches.
Looking ahead, the AFL is expected to continue monitoring crowd numbers and fan feedback. While a shift to larger stadiums isn't on the cards in the near future, the league remains committed to improving the overall AFLW experience and ensuring the competition continues to thrive. The focus will likely be on optimising the existing venues and exploring other ways to enhance the atmosphere and engagement for fans.
This announcement reinforces the AFL’s strategy of nurturing the AFLW competition within its current framework, prioritizing established agreements and a consistent fan experience over potentially larger, but less intimate, grand final spectacles. The decision is likely to spark further debate amongst fans and industry experts, but it signals a clear direction for the league’s venue planning in the years to come.
