The AFL has locked away one of its biggest success stories, with the league and South Australian government agreeing to extend Gather Round through to the end of 2029.
AFL chief executive Andrew Dillon and South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas will announce the three-year extension in Adelaide on Thursday morning after months of negotiations over the future of the festival.
The deal ensures South Australia retains hosting rights, with the current deal due to expire after this year, and provides certainty for what has become one of the AFL’s marquee events.
Gather Round has delivered significant economic benefits to South Australia, with the 2025 edition generating an estimated $113 million in economic impact.
Several new initiatives are expected to be incorporated into future Gather Rounds as part of the extension.
Reports in Adelaide have suggested that a Friday afternoon street parade featuring players and coaches from every club will begin from 2027, while Adelaide will also host an AFL Hall of Fame function during the festival.
There is also a preference for the reigning premiers to feature in a grand final replay at Adelaide Oval during the round.
The extension also gives the South Australian government time to pursue plans for a potential new venue in the McLaren Vale region, which could further expand Gather Round’s footprint beyond Adelaide, Norwood and the Barossa.
One challenge looming on the horizon is the arrival of the Tasmania Devils in 2028. With 19 teams in the competition, the AFL will need to determine how Gather Round accommodates an odd-numbered competition, with possibilities including one club playing twice or an alternative fixture arrangement.
More to come
Sam McClure is an award-winning AFL journalist and broadcaster.Connect via X or email.
