Essendon and Hawthorn to Seek 2027 Round 1 Match

The two clubs have requested a fixture at the MCG to highlight the move of Zach Merrett to the Hawthorn side.

Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Football

Essendon and Hawthorn to Seek 2027 Round 1 Match

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Should the AFL prioritize high-profile player transfers when creating the season schedule?

Essendon and Hawthorn have submitted a request to the AFL for a Round 1 match at the MCG in 2027. The proposal aims to capitalise on player transfer storylines, including Zach Merrett moving from Essendon to Hawthorn.

Why it matters

Clubs are actively influencing the 2027 fixture schedule to maximise interest in key player movements and historical rivalries. This follows the AFL decision to axe the Opening Round after a three-year experiment, returning to a traditional start.

The AFL axed the Opening Round after a three-year experiment. The 2027 season is set to commence on 17 or 18 March 2027.

The players

Essendon

Essendon is a professional Australian rules football club that competes in the Australian Football League.

Hawthorn

Hawthorn is an Australian rules football club that participates in the Australian Football League.

Zach Merrett

Zach Merrett is a professional Australian rules footballer who has transferred from Essendon to Hawthorn.

Brisbane Lions

The Brisbane Lions are a professional Australian rules football club based in Queensland.

Collingwood

Collingwood is a professional Australian rules football club based in Melbourne.

The details

The proposed matchup at the MCG is one of several requests currently under evaluation by the league alongside traditional commitments. Meanwhile, the Brisbane Lions have requested an Easter Thursday encounter against Collingwood, and the Carlton-Richmond Round 1 fixture is expected for 19 March.

17 or 18 March 2027: The scheduled start for the 2027 AFL season.
19 March 2027: The expected date for the Carlton versus Richmond match.
8-11 April 2027: The dates for Gather Round in South Australia.

Season Trajectory

The transition away from the Opening Round signals a return to traditional season launches for the 2027 campaign. The move impacts the competitive balance of early-season matchups as clubs attempt to anchor their schedules around high-profile player transfers.

The requested match schedule directly influences the early-season standings and broadcast priorities for the 2027 campaign. Fans and stakeholders should anticipate changes to the historical rhythm of opening rounds as the AFL balances club requests with traditional rivalry slots.

The takeaway

Clubs are leveraging player personnel changes to dictate the scheduling of prime-time slots for the upcoming season. Supporters can expect a condensed period of anticipation as the AFL finalises its formal 2027 programme.