The AFL has broken its all-time attendance record for a single round of football, with over 413,000 fans entering the gates of various stadiums across the weekend.

With 2017's 400,401 benchmark in the sights of the AFL, Round 1's final game between Fremantle and Brisbane at Optus Stadium saw that number topped.

For just the second time in the competition's history, 400,000 spectators were reached across any particular round, indicating the strong position Australian Rules Football is in this country.

AFL CEO Andrew Dillon said the season could not have got off to a better start with fans turning out in droves across the country.
“The season has started like no other, with a historic Opening Round in New South Wales and Queensland and four sold-out matches,” said Mr Dillon.
“Footy is back and thriving and we're thrilled the momentum has continued across Round One with fans attending the footy all around the country breaking our all-time attendance record for a single round.
“On behalf of the AFL a huge thank you to the fans, our venues and clubs. The 2024 Toyota AFL Premiership Season is set to become one of the most memorable of all time.”
The impressive round of football began with Carlton-Richmond's traditional Thursday night clash at the MCG, which raked in 83,881 fans to see the Blues win in a nail-biter.
The following evening was Collingwood's 2023 premiership flag unfurling at the home of football.
The Pies, however, were unable to rise to the occasion, as they were downed by Sydney in front of 78,933 supporters.
Essendon and Hawthorn did themselves no harm in locking in an annual Round 1 clash at the MCG.
Rivalling the opening two nights, the arch-rivals witnessed 73,805 fans come through the gates on Saturday.
At GMHBA Stadium, which recently completed its redevelopment and unveiled the 'Joel Selwood Stand', the Cats and Saints were privy to one of the biggest crowds the ground has seen in the last 40 years.
Reaching a whopping 39,352 people - sixth highest on record at the venue - Geelong were able to get season 2024 off with a win, leaving St Kilda bitter and disappointed.

Match attendance across Round One. 

Carlton v Richmond – 83,881
Collingwood v Sydney Swans – 78,933
Essendon v Hawthorn – 73,805
GWS GIANTS v North Melbourne – 8,034
Geelong Cats v St Kilda – 39,352
Gold Coast SUNS v Adelaide Crows – 11,466
Melbourne v Western Bulldogs - 44,100
Port Adelaide v West Coast Eagles – 33,230
Fremantle v Brisbane Lions – 40,604
Total fans - 413,405