Get ready for a storm of controversy—both on and off the field—as the AFL season kicks off with a bang! But here’s where it gets controversial... The age-old debate over the Grand Final’s time slot is back with a vengeance in 2026, and it’s dividing fans, executives, and even the league’s new chairman, Craig Drummond. Should the iconic decider remain a cherished daytime tradition, or is it time to chase bigger TV audiences with a twilight shift? And this is the part most people miss... While the league salivates over potential viewership spikes, fans have consistently voted with their hearts—and their surveys—to keep the Grand Final in the afternoon. Drummond, fresh into his role, faces a decision that could redefine the event’s legacy. But that’s not all—Queensland’s weather is threatening to upstage the opening round again, with a tropical cyclone looming large. Just one year after storms forced the cancellation of two fixtures, the state is on ‘high alert’ as heavy rainfall looms over this weekend’s matches. Will history repeat itself, or will the games go ahead? Meanwhile, in Brisbane, the back-to-back premiers are grappling with Lachie Neale’s off-field drama. After stepping down as co-captain due to personal issues, Neale’s return to the field has sparked questions about his focus and the team’s dynamics. AFL 360’s Garry Lyon believes the Lions will weather the storm, but how will Neale’s teammates—some with ties to his ex-partner—handle the situation? Here’s the bold question: Is the AFL prioritizing profit over tradition by considering a Grand Final time shift, or is it a necessary evolution for the sport? Let’s debate—comment below with your take!
