26 AFL Clashes You Can’t Miss in the 2026 Season
The 2026 AFL Premiership fixture has finally dropped, and it’s already shaping up to be one of the most exciting seasons in years. From emotional reunions to fierce rivalries, this lineup is absolutely packed with storylines that fans won’t want to miss. So, if you’re already counting down to March, here are the must-watch games to circle in your calendar right now.
Kicking off the season, there’s no better way to start than with the headline-making return of Charlie Curnow. After his blockbuster move from Carlton to the Sydney Swans, Curnow will face his old team in the very first game on March 5 at the SCG. It’s sure to be an emotional and fiery matchup as former teammates become opponents. Expect tension, excitement, and maybe even a few goals that remind Blues fans of what they’ve lost.
Then, just a few days later, St Kilda will unveil its new-look lineup against Collingwood in a massive Sunday night showdown at the MCG. The Saints went all in during the off-season—snagging Tom De Koning, Jack Silvagni, Sam Flanders, and Liam Ryan—and this will be their first big test against the reigning powerhouse Magpies. It’s the kind of clash that could define their year early on.
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Of course, no AFL season feels complete without the traditional Carlton vs. Richmond opener in round one. Even though both clubs are rebuilding, the rivalry still burns strong, and after last year’s upset, fans are expecting fireworks once again. The Bombers vs. Hawks matchup that follows will also carry plenty of heat, especially after the failed Zach Merrett trade that nearly saw the Essendon captain switch sides.
Another emotional showdown will see St Kilda face former captain Jack Steele, who’s now wearing Melbourne colors. With Steven King making his coaching debut for the Demons, that Sunday match will be one of the most talked-about early fixtures.
As the season rolls on, fans can look forward to some traditional blockbusters that never disappoint—Brisbane vs. Collingwood on Easter Thursday, North Melbourne’s Good Friday clash with Carlton, and of course, the electric ANZAC Day game between the Bombers and the Pies.
Later in the year, the fixture turns even juicier: Christian Petracca’s first game against Melbourne as a Sun, the heated Sydney Derby, the famous Dreamtime at the ‘G, and the fiery Showdown between Port Adelaide and the Crows—all promise plenty of drama.
And don’t forget the emotional homecomings and player reunions sprinkled throughout—Clayton Oliver facing Melbourne, Jamarra Ugle-Hagan taking on his old Bulldogs, and Oscar Allen returning to Perth with Brisbane.
So, whether you’re a diehard supporter or just love the theatre of AFL footy, 2026 has something for everyone. From opening night to the final siren of the season, these 26 games will tell the story of who rises, who falls, and who writes the next great chapter in footy history.
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