Geelong and Brisbane will meet in the 2025 AFL grand final, with both sides aiming to cement their status as the team of the modern era. The Cats and Lions have shared two of the past three premierships, but this Saturday will mark the first time in their 126-year VFL/AFL history that they face off in a grand final.
Geelong earned their spot by trouncing Brisbane in a qualifying final three weeks ago, then outclassing Hawthorn. The Lions took a longer route after that defeat, but have since found ominous form with a statement win over Gold Coast and a dismantling of Collingwood in a preliminary final.
The first bounce is at 2.30pm AEST on Saturday 27 September at the MCG. The match should finish around 5.15pm AEST. If scores are level at full-time, extra-time will be played – two three-minute halves, then further periods if needed – rather than a grand final replay.
The forecast for Melbourne is partly cloudy with a medium chance of showers (0-1mm) and a maximum of 18C. The traditional parade begins at Melbourne Park at 10am AEST on Friday 26 September, a public holiday in Victoria.
Pre-game entertainment featuring Snoop Dogg starts at 1.30pm AEST, with Tash Sultana on guitar. Baker Boy returns to the grand final stage, and Vera Blue will perform the national anthem. The half-time sprint will be started by Australian athletics sensation Gout Gout.
The grand final will be broadcast live on Channel Seven and 7Plus, and streamed via the 7Plus app. Fans outside Australia can watch through the Watch AFL website and app. Guardian Australia will provide a live blog covering the entire day.
