GEELONG will launch its 2023 AFL Premiership Season in a blockbuster home Friday night showdown against Collingwood at the MCG at the earlier time of 7.40pm.
The AFL released the full Round 1 fixture on Sunday, with the remaining rounds to be announced later this week.
The mouth-watering opening round match-up will see both sides return to the ‘G where they played out their recent Qualifying Final thriller, which saw the Cats secure a six point win to progress to the Preliminary Final.
Geelong CEO Steve Hocking said, “Our members and supporters will be thrilled to see our home fixture kick-off in a big way with a blockbuster match in front of 90,000 fans at the MCG.
“It’s a privilege to be given the opportunity to host the Friday night match of the opening round and if the last time we played Collingwood is anything to go by, fans should expect to see another exciting contest between both teams.
“We appreciate the AFL and broadcast partners supporting the earlier 7.40pm start time, which is a positive for our members and fans travelling from Geelong for the game.”
In announcing the Round 1 Fixture AFL EGM Clubs, Broadcast and Fixturing Travis Auld said, “We are always aiming to get our season off to the best possible start, and with four big clubs, traditional rivalries, 150,000+ fans at the MCG over the first two nights and with millions more watching around the country, it gives the competition the best opportunity to kickstart the 2023 season.
“It’s been a big year and come Round One the anticipation for the return of football will be palpable and bring not only Melbourne to life, but all the cities hosting matches in the opening rounds.”
Mr Auld said a 2022 Toyota AFL Grand Final re-match was discussed as an option for round one but ultimately not fixtured in the best interests of the fans.
“After discussing a potential Grand Final rematch to open the season, it was determined in consultation with Geelong, the reduced capacity of GMHBA Stadium paired with a potential Wednesday night match in Melbourne, wasn’t the best option for Cats’ fans to travel up the highway for a midweek night match.
It is the first time since 2019 the two sides have met in Round 1, with the Cats winners on that occasion by seven points.
The Cats and Pies game will be played on Friday 17 March, with the opening match of the season to be played the night before, Thursday 16 March between Richmond and Carlton.
Ticketing information for the 2023 AFL Premiership season will be confirmed soon.
The match will be broadcast live nationally on Channel 7, Foxtel and Kayo.
AFL Round 1 Fixture
Friday 17 March, 7.40pm
Geelong v Collingwood at MCG
