‘Rising Tensions: AFL Broadcasters Clash over Scheduling Conflicts’

A scheduling conflict is set to emerge for the AFL, leaving its broadcasting partners reportedly dissatisfied.

On the 28th of August, Fox Footy is scheduled to air the annual All-Australian awards, as is their tradition. However, Channel Seven has intruded on that timeslot with a revamped Legends Game.

According to Nine’s chief AFL reporter Tom Morris, neither broadcaster is willing to yield control of the coveted slot.

“One aspect that is puzzling is the clash of dates, something we haven’t encountered before,” Morris remarked during Nine’s Footy Classified.

“This is an issue since it pits Fox Footy against Channel Seven. One channel broadcasts a charity match, while the other showcases an extravagant AFL gala.”

Morris highlighted that the clash arose due to the rescheduling of the Essendon versus Gold Coast match, initially postponed due to adverse weather in Queensland.

The AFL opted to shift the game to the final round of the season, with it expected to take place on the Wednesday following Round 24.

This arrangement means that both the Bombers and Suns will need to play two matches that week.

As Wednesday is unavailable and Friday is reserved for AFLW, both networks are now vying for the Thursday night slot.

“This will be something to keep an eye on as tensions are rising behind the scenes,” Morris noted.

AFL journalist Cal Twomey noted that the esteemed Rising Star award has also been impacted by the revised schedule.

“There’s a possibility of a nomination emerging from that final game, and for the first time, the Rising Star winner will be announced on Brownlow Medal night,” Twomey explained.

“This logistical reshuffle was necessary in case a nominee arises from that last match or if there are issues with the Match Review Office that could impact eligibility.

“Until 2019, the Rising Star had its own dedicated event, but now it’ll share the spotlight on Brownlow Medal night.”

Both Harley Reid of West Coast and Sam Darcy from Western Bulldogs became ineligible for the 2024 Rising Star award due to MRO suspensions, sparking outrage among commentators.

Despite this, the AFL has refrained from altering the rule that ties on-field suspensions to award eligibility, similar to the coveted Brownlow Medal.

AFL legends James Hird and Rory Sloane confirmed they were approached to participate in the Legends Game, but both declined due to injuries.

The match hasn’t been held since 2019 but is confirmed to return at Marvel Stadium.

Channel Seven has yet to publicly announce the game’s revival.