The AFL has had to adjust the kick-off times for two matches, notably the highly anticipated Anzac Day showdown between Collingwood and Essendon, due to a long-standing Tasmanian law dating back 97 years.
This year, Anzac Day coincides with a Saturday, prompting the AFL to schedule four matches throughout the day.
The first match is set to occur in Tasmania, featuring Hawthorn against Gold Coast, originally slated to begin at 12:15pm AEST.
The Bombers aligning for the Anzac Observance in 2025. AFL Photos via Getty Images
Nevertheless, Tasmania’s Anzac Day Observance Act of 1929 stipulates that no sporting events in the state on Anzac Day can begin before 12:30pm.
The Act specifies that “any event at sports to which this section applies and that is held on Anzac Day must not commence before 12:30pm.”
Any sporting organisation that contravenes this law faces penalties.
As a result, the kick-off time for the Hawks versus Suns match has been rescheduled to 12:30pm, with the opening bounce now planned for 12:32pm.
This change also means that the blockbuster match between Essendon and Collingwood at the MCG will start at 3:20pm, shifted back by five minutes to reduce overlap.
The AFL previously staged matches in Tasmania on Anzac Day in both 2021 and 2022, with both matches kicking off at 12:30pm.
However, the nearly century-old legislation appeared to be overlooked while preparing the 2026 fixture.
In a public statement, AFL scheduling chief Josh Bowler expressed gratitude to the clubs, broadcasters, and venues for their flexibility regarding the adjustment.
“Due to legislative requirements in Tasmania on Anzac Day we have revised the start time for the Hawthorn versus Gold Coast Suns match,” the AFL’s statement conveyed.
“Consequently, to minimize overlap between that match and the one at the MCG, we’ve further adjusted the start time to 3:20pm, which was previously set at 3:15pm.”
An Anzac Day match in Tasmania 2022 between Geelong and North Melbourne. Getty
More than 92,000 spectators attended the MCG for the Pies vs Bombers clash in 2025, with the game attracting over 90,000 fans each year since 2023.
Port Adelaide is set to host Geelong at 6:35pm, and Fremantle will take on Carlton at 8:15pm, rounding off what has become one of the signature days on the AFL calendar.
The start times for the evening games have not been altered.
On Anzac Day Eve, Richmond will again meet Melbourne in the traditional clash, which takes place on Friday night this year.
This encounter, while a poignant tribute to the Anzacs, features two struggling teams vying for glory in the coveted Friday night timeslot.
Compiled by SportArena.au
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