THE AFL confirms Fremantle’s round eight match against the Brisbane Lions scheduled for Optus Stadium will be relocated to The Gabba with their Round 21 match-up to be switched to Optus Stadium.

The day and time for the Round Eight match-up remains unchanged with the game against the Brisbane Lions to commence at 4:40pm AEST on Sunday, May 9.

Fremantle will travel to Queensland on Wednesday, May 5 and will be based on the Gold Coast before travelling to Melbourne for their Round Nine match against Essendon at Marvel Stadium on Sunday, May 16.

The AFL is working closely with both Western Australian-based teams and any decision made is in consultation with respective State Governments and aims to minimise any potential disruption and risk for both the clubs and the broader competition.

AFL Executive General Manager Football Operations Steve Hocking said the health and safety of everyone remains paramount and the league would continue to take the advice of governments and health officials.

“The health and safety of everyone in the game and the wider community remains the priority as we continue to navigate the pandemic,” Mr Hocking said.

“Our competition will continue to remain adaptable as we navigate the 2021 Toyota AFL Premiership Season and the AFL thanks both clubs, players and the AFLPA, venues, governments, and supporters for their understanding.” 

Round eight

Friday, May 7
Richmond v Geelong at the MCG, 7.50pm AEST

Saturday, May 8
GWS Giants v Essendon at Giants Stadium, 1.45pm AEST
Gold Coast v St Kilda at Metricon Stadium, 2.10pm AEST
North Melbourne v Collingwood at Marvel Stadium, 4.35pm AEST
Melbourne v Sydney at the MCG, 7.25pm AEST
Port Adelaide v Adelaide at Adelaide Oval, 7.10pm ACST

Sunday, May 9
Hawthorn v West Coast at the MCG, 1.10pm AEST
Western Bulldogs v Carlton at Marvel Stadium, 3.20pm AEST
Brisbane v Fremantle at the Gabba, 4.40pm AEST

Tickets to the Round Eight match between the Brisbane Lions and Fremantle at The Gabba will go on sale via Ticketmaster at 10:00am (local time) on Wednesday, May 5 for all Club Members and the General Public. The game will be broadcast live via Foxtel and Kayo, and the Seven Network in Queensland and Western Australia.