The AFL has released the fixture for round one of the 2023 season.
Richmond and Carlton will open the season on Thursday March 16, after last year’s experiment with a grand final rematch.
Those two grand finalists, Melbourne and Western Bulldogs, will face off on Saturday night, while reigning premiers Geelong will host Collingwood at the MCG on a Friday night.
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All Victorian-based clubs will play in Melbourne in the opening round, while Optus Stadium will host no matches due to an Ed Sheeran concert.
Fremantle and West Coast will both play their matches at the venue in round two.
Fixture boss Travis Auld said another grand final rematch to open the season was considered, but ultimately discarded.
“After discussing a potential Grand Final rematch to open the season, it was determined in consultation with Geelong, the reduced capacity of GMHBA Stadium paired with a potential Wednesday night match in Melbourne, wasn’t the best option for Cats’ fans to travel up the highway for a midweek night match,” Auld said.
“The two WA-based teams understand the challenges with Optus Stadium hosting the Ed Sheeran concert, and we appreciate their understanding in both clubs starting their seasons on the road.
“Recent history has shown the competition is closer than ever, and we look forward to Round One setting the scene for what shapes to be thrilling and dramatic home and away season.”
ROUND 1 FIXTURE
Thursday, March 16
Richmond v Carlton, MCG, 7.20pm AEDT
Friday, March 17
Geelong v Collingwood, MCG, 7.40pm AEDT
Saturday, March 18
North Melbourne v West Coast, Marvel Stadium, 1.45pm AEDT
Port Adelaide v Brisbane, Adelaide Oval, 4.05pm ACDT
Melbourne v Western Bulldogs, MCG, 7.25pm AEDT
Gold Coast v Sydney, Metricon Stadium, 7.00pm AEST
Sunday, March 19
Greater Western Sydney v Adelaide, Giants Stadium, 1.10pm AEDT
Hawthorn v Essendon, MCG, 3.20pm AEDT
St Kilda v Fremantle, Marvel Stadium, 4.40pm AEDT
