Darwin could finally play host to an AFL game in 2021 with rumours swirling of potential double-header
After multiple setbacks Darwin could finally host an AFL match in 2021, with rumours swirling of a potential double-header being lined up for TIO Stadium.
AFTER multiple setbacks Darwin could finally host an AFL match in 2021, with rumours swirling of a potential round 22 double-header being lined up for TIO Stadium.
The games rumoured to be coming to Darwin in round 22 are the Gold Coast Suns home match against Essendon and the GWS Giants home match against Richmond.
The fixtures are not yet confirmed with confirmation expected as early as Wednesday afternoon or Thursday morning.
The encounters will have plenty to offer for Territory fans with three of the four sides still in the hunt for a finals berth.
And there’s potential that Maurice Rioli Jr could make his debut for Richmond, while Joel Jeffrey and Malcolm Rosas Jr will be in the mix for the Suns.
The AFL has already been pitched to come to Darwin on two occasions throughout the 2021 season with Covid outbreaks putting an end to both opportunities.
Gold Coast were originally set to play Hawthorn at TIO in round 11 but that and the Alice Springs hosted match between Melbourne and Brisbane were relocated.
Later in round 19 the Gold Coast were once more set to play in Darwin, this time against Melbourne, but that game was relocated as well due to another spat of outbreaks.
Round 22 is shaping up to be the next target to get the game to the Top End and it could be the biggest yet with a double-header.
Darwin hosted a successful double-header in 2020 including the Dreamtime game between Richmond and Essendon drawing plenty of crowds.
Hospitality NT chief executive Alex Bruce said a Darwin double header would be massive boon for Territory industries.
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“A double-header would put Darwin on the national radar as a sporting destination where people can come and watch some great footy and then explore the rest of the Territory,” Bruce said.
“Sports tourism is a growing market and we’re supportive of AFL matches being secured up here.
“As borders are closed we know sports fans from around the country are heading on quick trips interstate to get their fill.
“Off the back of that we saw a boost in accommodation, hospitality and tourism which allows us to package ourselves as a premier sporting location.”
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