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The 2026 AFL fixture has been unveiled, with the Dees gearing up for a new era of Demon Spirit.
The 2026 AFL Fixture has been unveiled, with the Dees gearing up for a new era of Demon Spirit.
The season will kick off with a bang, as Melbourne returns to the ‘G to host St Kilda in Round 1 on Sunday 15 March. The match up poses several compelling story lines, with Steven King’s first match at the helm and potential encounters against their old club for new Dees Jack Steele and Max Heath among the many talking points.
VIEW FULL FIXTURE >>> 2026 AFL SEASON
Melbourne is set to play five of its first seven matches on the hallowed turf, boding well for an explosive start to the season.
Melbourne CEO Paul Guerra reflected on the draw, noting the opportunities for the Demon faithful to enjoy the footy this coming AFL season.
“A strong MCG presence, remains our top priority, so we’re thrilled to be able to start our season at our spiritual home,” Guerra said.
“Our supporters can look forward to a blockbuster schedule, featuring traditional Victorian rivals Essendon, Hawthorn, Richmond and Geelong in home matches, plus MCG away matches against Richmond, Collingwood and Carlton.
“With several home and away matches in family-friendly afternoon time slots, Demon families will also have plenty of chances to make footy memories together in 2026 and the opportunity to see Steven King’s game plan come to life as we kick of the season at the G’.
“It’s a terrific outcome for our members and supporters, and we can’t wait to see the red and blue faithful filling the stands once again for what promises to be an exciting 2026 AFL season.”
The fixture presents a win for members across the country, with the Dees locked in for a match in every state. The season will see three trips to Adelaide including a Gather Round clash against the Bombers, along with singular travels to Perth, Gold Coast, Sydney, Launceston, and the traditional Heart of the Nation match in Alice Springs.
Nine of the first 15 rounds will be broadcast on free-to-air TV, with the club’s bye round scheduled for Round 16. A Dees digital membership is the best way to catch the action live from your TV.
Sir Doug Nicholls Round, where the club will once again take on the name Narrm, will be held across Round 10 and 11, against Hawthorn and Western Bulldogs.
Melbourne members and supporters can now mark their calendars in preparation for the first 15 matches of next year. Round 16 to 24 opponents have also been revealed, with fixture details to remain floating until later in the season.
2026 memberships are now on sale. Grab yours today and get ready for the dawn of a new era of Demon Spirit.
