The AFL is weeks away from releasing its 2026 fixture, with the controversial pre-Round 1 experiment set to continue for a third season, albeit with some adjustments.

Designed to give northern states exclusive exposure, the Opening Round has drawn criticism for neglecting Victoria, the sport’s heartland, but after two seasons held solely in NSW and Queensland, the AFL plans to add a Melbourne fixture.

St Kilda is rumoured to host Collingwood at the MCG on the Sunday night before Victoria’s Labour Day holiday which would allow thousands attending the Melbourne Formula 1 Grand Prix on Sunday, March 8, to also attend an AFL match that evening.

Former Carlton and Brisbane star Brendan Fevola claims he’s heard rumours that St Kilda fan Ed Sheeran could perform at the Saints’ season opener ag

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