The AFL is facing a scheduling conflict that has stirred frustration among its broadcast partners. As it stands, Fox Footy plans to air the annual All-Australian awards on August 28, a traditional event for the network. However, Channel Seven has also laid claim to that timeslot, proposing a refreshed Legend’s Game, thus creating a clash.
According to Nine’s AFL chief reporter, Tom Morris, negotiations between the two broadcasters have reached an impasse. He highlighted the unusual nature of this conflict, explaining that it pits a charity match against a high-profile AFL gala, a situation that is not typically encountered.
The scheduling clash arises from the rescheduling of a match between Essendon and Gold Coast, which was postponed earlier this season due to adverse weather conditions in Queensland. The AFL has opted to slot this match in the last round of the season, likely to take place mid-week, which necessitates both teams playing two games in quick succession.
As the Wednesday slot is unavailable and with Friday allocated for AFLW matches, both Fox Footy and Channel Seven are vying for Thursday night. Morris noted that this developing situation is causing behind-the-scenes tension.
AFL reporter Cal Twomey further pointed out that the Rising Star award, another prestigious accolade, is also impacted by the rescheduled game. For the first time, the winner of this award will be announced during the Brownlow Medal night, a logistical adjustment made in light of potential nominations from the final round of matches. There is ongoing concern about player eligibility due to match review panel (MRO) issues, which have affected players like Harley Reid and Sam Darcy, who can no longer contest the Rising Star award due to suspensions.
Meanwhile, both James Hird and Rory Sloane, notable AFL figures, have declined invitations to partake in the Legend’s Game due to injury concerns. The event has not occurred since 2019 and will be hosted at Marvel Stadium, although Channel Seven has yet to formally announce the game’s return.
This scheduling debacle underscores the complexities of maintaining event calendars in professional sports, particularly when unexpected weather-related delays necessitate last-minute changes. As both networks dig in their heels, fans and stakeholders alike will be watching closely to see how this tug-of-war unfolds.