The AFL has sealed one of its biggest success stories, with the league and the South Australian government agreeing to extend the Assembly Cycle until the end of 2029.
AFL chief executive Andrew Dillon and South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas will announce the three-year extension in Adelaide on Thursday morning after months of negotiations on the future of the festival.
The deal ensures that South Australia retains hosting rights, with the current deal due to expire after this year, and gives certainty to what has become one of the AFL’s showcase events.
Gather Round has brought significant economic benefits to South Australia, with the 2025 edition generating an estimated $113 million in economic impact.
Several new initiatives are expected to be included in future Funding Rounds as part of the expansion.
Reports in Adelaide have suggested that a Friday afternoon street parade featuring players and coaches from each club will start from 2027, while Adelaide will also host an AFL Hall of Fame ceremony during the festival.
There is also a preference for the reigning premiers to participate in the final replay at Adelaide Oval during the round.
The expansion also gives the South Australian government time to pursue plans for a possible new venue in the McLaren Vale area, which could further expand the Gather Round circuit beyond Adelaide, Norwood and the Barossa.
One challenge looming on the horizon is the arrival of the Tasmanian Devils in 2028. With 19 teams in the competition, the AFL will need to determine how the Gather Round handles the odd-numbered competition, with possibilities including one club playing doubles or an alternative match order.
More to come
Sam McClure is an award-winning AFL journalist and broadcaster.Connect via X or email address.
