The AFL is eyeing a potentially historic entertainment opportunity for this year’s grand final with the possibility of securing the Foo Fighters as performers. The rock band will be in Southeast Asia for a tour in early October, with AFL broadcaster Dwayne Russell highlighting their proximity and availability just days after the grand final, which is set for Saturday, September 27.
Russell emphasised the logistical ease of getting the Foo Fighters to Melbourne, noting that after performing in Indonesia on October 2, they would only need a short flight from Jakarta. He challenged AFL CEO Andrew Dillon to pursue this exciting prospect and invest in what could be a thrilling pre-game performance.
The AFL has previously engaged high-profile international acts such as Katy Perry, KISS, and Robbie Williams for half-time shows. Perry, who performed last year, reportedly received $1.4 million, a figure similar to what Williams was estimated to have earned in 2022. This history of securing big names suggests that the league is open to a significant investment in entertainment.
The Foo Fighters are also set to perform at the Singapore Grand Prix shortly after their potential appearance in Melbourne, alongside other notable acts such as Elton John and The Smashing Pumpkins. This means the band’s scheduling aligned conveniently for the AFL to make a bold move.
With anticipation building, the AFL has a unique chance to elevate the grand final experience, making a remarkable impression on fans and setting a new standard for entertainment at major sporting events. Russell proposed that Dillon should act quickly to “write the cheque” for this promising opportunity, which could make the 2023 grand final a memorable occasion not just for football enthusiasts but for music lovers as well.