Gold Coast Suns take on Power, St Kilda in Darwin and Demons tackle GWS in Alice in 2026
Territorians will again be treated to top shelf footy action with three blockbuster AFL matches locked in across Darwin and Alice Springs in 2026. Find out who’s playing.
Territorians will again be treated to some top shelf footy action with three AFL matches locked in across Darwin and Alice Springs in 2026.
The Suns return to their northern fortress after two thrillers against Hawthorn and the Bulldogs brought sell out numbers to TIO Stadium this year.
In 2026, the Gold Coast will take on St Kilda in Round 9, six years on from their originally scheduled 2020 meeting, and then Port Adelaide in Round 10 as part of Sir Doug Nichols Round.
It marks the first time Port Adelaide have played in Darwin since 2013.
The Suns delivered two outstanding matches in 2025 with hard-fought wins against top sides that set the tone for a season including the side’s first ever finals outing.
Gold Coast now have Christian Petracca in the mix who’s sure to draw plenty of eyes along with Brownlow winner Matt Rowell.
While there’s plenty of Territorians to look out for including Dan Rioli, Joel Jeffrey and Ben Long.
“The trip up to Darwin is always special for me and one that I’ll be marking in the calendar,” Jeffrey said.
“It’s plenty of fun with all the boys, especially those with connections to the NT, and the opportunity to go back and spend the week in the local communities is always a rewarding experience.
“The opportunity to return to Darwin to play during Sir Doug Nicholls Round is always extra special as well.
“We’ll be doing our best to make it 10 wins straight in Darwin for our Territory Suns fans.”
In Central Australia, the Melbourne Football Club will return to TIO Traeger Park for their annual Heart of the Nation match against Greater Western Sydney in Round 12.
The Giants narrowly defeated the Demons 47-45 in a wet match in 2023 and fans can expect another big showdown.
The matches will also feature community engagement opportunities, giving fans of all ages the chance to meet their favourite players and immerse themselves in the Territory.
Head of AFL Northern Territory Sam Gibson said the sporting body was excited to welcome both clubs back to the Territory in 2026.
“These games remain a highlight on the NT sporting calendar, drawing strong crowds and creating meaningful connections between our community, our players, and the game,” he said.
“We’d also like to thank Tourism and Events NT and the NT government for their ongoing support in making these matches possible.
“The continued passion and engagement from fans show just how much AFL means to Territorians, inspiring the next generation of players and fans alike.”
Major Events and Tourism and Hospitality minister Marie-Clare Boothby said they were proud to continue delivering elite sport for fans across the NT.
“With two huge Suns games in Darwin and Melbourne’s annual Heart of the Nation clash in Alice Springs, we’re giving Territory fans another season premium sport right in their backyard,” she said.
“These games are more than just great footy, they bring people together, fill our hotels, cafes and pubs, and showcase the Territory lifestyle to a national audience.
“Our government is here to back these opportunities that grow our visitor economy, inspire the next generation of Territory players, and remind Australians why there’s nowhere else like the NT.”
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Originally published as Gold Coast Suns take on Power, St Kilda in Darwin and Demons tackle GWS in Alice in 2026
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