THE AFL has on Tuesday announced the 2021 Toyota AFL Grand Final will commence at 5:15pm AWST / 7:15pm AEST on Saturday, September 25 at Optus Stadium.
The 2021 Toyota AFL Grand Final is the first AFL premiership-decider to be held in Perth and the second held outside of Victoria as a result of the ongoing challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic in recent seasons.
AFL Executive General Manager Clubs and Broadcasting Travis Auld said the league was pleased to be able to confirm the start time for the 2021 Toyota AFL Grand Final.
“The 5:15pm AWST / 7:15pm AEST start time aims to provide fans at the game with the ultimate Grand Final experience by maximising the stadium’s offering while taking into consideration the broadcast audience across the country,” Mr Auld said.
“The AFL, together with the Seven Network, remain cognisant of finishing the match at a suitable time for younger footy fans and, as a result, landed on a timeslot that is earlier than the usual start time for night matches during the season and last year’s Grand Final.
“Historically, a really special part of Grand Final day is the build-up and anticipation, and we want to ensure we can share the excitement and atmosphere with the millions watching across the nation and around the world.”
2021 Toyota AFL Grand Final (start times for each State / Territory)
AWST(local) 5:15pm – WA
ACST 6:45pm – NT, SA
AEST 7:15pm – ACT, NSW, QLD, TAS, VIC