AFL CEO Andrew Dillon has his say on NFL showpiece and the prospect of an MCG fixture clash
AFL chief executive Andrew Dillon has had his say on the potential finals fixture clash with the NFL showpiece set for Melbourne.
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AFL chief executive Andrew Dillon is confident the 2026 finals will not be impacted by the NFL showpiece at the MCG in late 2026.
The NFL announced it would be travelling to Melbourne as part of a multi-year deal to play a game at the iconic sporting venue.
With the NFL wanting its match to be early in the season, which falls around the time of the AFL finals, concern was raised about a clash with the city’s main code.
But Dillon said the AFL had been in discussions with the NFL and MCG to ensure its finals wouldn’t be impacted.
“We’ve had great conversations with the MCG and the NFL about that,” he said.
“I think depending on when the game is played, and they don’t set their schedule until next year, we’ve got all of the contingency covered.
“We are comfortable our finals series will be able to be played as it always will be.”
Dillon also ruled out a return serve between Australia and the US, saying the AFL would focus on its own product before looking to expand abroad.
The AFL has played overseas in the past, including Port Adelaide playing St Kilda in Shanghai, but the game gathered little interest.
“We’ve got a lot of work to do in Australia,” Dillon said.
“I think if there was to be any international games played at AFL level they’d have to be a part of a really big strategic plan that started at the community up.
“I think coming in and playing a game one off without any strategy wouldn’t make sense. I think the NFL has got a really well-considered expansion plan.
“They’re investing in Australia in flag football and all the rest, it’ll be great for Melbourne when the games are played.”
Originally published as AFL CEO Andrew Dillon has his say on NFL showpiece and the prospect of an MCG fixture clash
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