Countdown Begins: What to Expect in 2026
The anticipation for the 2026 Toyota AFL season is building, with just 53 days left until Round 1. Melbourne’s AFL program has embraced significant changes over the last six months, setting the stage for a thrilling season. Here’s what fans can expect as the countdown to 2026 begins.
New Talent Joining Melbourne in 2026
This off-season saw the addition of ten new players to the Melbourne Demons, enhancing the team’s capabilities.
- Xavier Taylor: A tall defender known for his speed and versatility.
- Latrelle Pickett: An agile player with an instinctive goal sense.
- Riley Onley: A strong athlete who brings height and agility to the midfield.
- Kalani White: The son of AFL legend Jeff White, contributing height in the ruck and forward lines.
- Thomas Matthews: A dynamic small forward with impressive skills at ground level.
- Oscar Berry: Transitioning from basketball, this developing defender shows promise with agility.
- Brody Mihocek: An experienced forward vital for scoring opportunities.
- Jack Steele: A leader enhancing Melbourne’s midfield structure.
- Max Heath: A young ruckman focusing on growth under captain Max Gawn.
- Changkuoth Jiath: A fast rebounding defender adding depth to the backline.
Pre-Season Matches
As the teams prepare for the season, two significant pre-season matches are scheduled:
- Match Simulation: Melbourne vs. North Melbourne
- Date: Friday, 20 February
- Location: Casey Fields, Bunurong
- Time: To Be Confirmed
- AAMI Community Series: Melbourne vs. Richmond
- Date: Friday, 27 February
- Location: Mars Stadium, Wadawurrung
- Time: 4:10 PM (AEDT)
2026 Season Opener
Round 1 kicks off on Sunday, 15 March, at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) against St Kilda. This match marks the debut of new senior coach Steven King and promises excitement for fans. There’s a strong emotional undercurrent, especially after last year’s loss to the Saints. The opportunity for new recruits to make their first appearances adds to the anticipation.
Key Matches to Watch
Several matches throughout the 2026 season are generating buzz.
- ANZAC Day Eve (Round 7): Melbourne vs. Richmond
- Date: Friday, 24 April
- Time: 7:40 PM
- Location: MCG
- Sir Doug Nicholls Round (Round 10): Melbourne vs. Hawthorn
- Date: Saturday, 16 May
- Time: 4:15 PM
- Location: MCG
- Big Freeze (Round 13): Melbourne vs. Collingwood
- Date: Monday, 8 June
- Time: 3:15 PM
- Location: MCG
Tickets and Membership Details
While tickets for the 2026 AFL season have not yet been released, fans can secure their membership to ensure they don’t miss the action. Here are the options available:
- Red & Blue Home: 11-game general admission membership for all home games at the MCG.
- 3-game Flexi: Three tickets for home games of your choice at the MCG.
- Digital Demon: Stream all games live with a subscription to Kayo Standard or Premium.
As the countdown to the 2026 season continues, excitement is palpable for Melbourne’s new era. Stay tuned to Filmogaz.com for the latest updates and insights.
