The extinction of the Opening Round experiment means all 18 clubs will feature in Round 1 of the AFL season, but it won't be kicked off with the traditional Thursday night clash between Richmond and Carlton at the MCG.
The AFL confirmed last month the first game at the home of football for 2027 will be on Friday (March 19) as the ground recovers from the 150th centennial cricket test between Australia and England the week prior. This pushes the season start date, ultimately resulting in the Grand Final being played in October.
The Tigers and Blues are tipped to push for the first use of the MCG in 2027, but the AFL is looking at one or two clashes before then.
The AFL is still keen on playing football along the eastern seaboard, with Sydney and Brisbane looming as hosts for the opening match of the season.
However, the Lions could unveil their third consecutive premiership flag, as well as clash with former player Lachie Neale and Collingwood the following week in Round 2 for the traditional Easter Thursday clash.
Therefore, could the Swans open the season with a clash against top-four-fancy Western Bulldogs? Plenty of intrigue will surround both clubs' fortunes in 2027 after Sydney's off-season scandal and the Bulldogs' massive trade and free-agent haul, including Zak Butters.
Hawthorn and Essendon are another mouth-watering clash, simply because Zach Merrett got his wish and moved to the former.
Geelong heads to Queensland, and North Melbourne eyes a 50-year reunion for the 1977 premiership against Collingwood on Sunday.
Melbourne snares its beloved early Sunday afternoon slot against St Kilda, while the Giants will move to Accor Stadium given Engie Stadium is unavailable to use.
Predicted Round 1 Fixture
All times AEDT.
Thursday, March 18
Sydney vs Western Bulldogs, SCG, 7:30pm
Friday, March 19
Carlton vs Richmond, MCG, 7:40pm
Saturday, March 20
GWS vs Brisbane, Accor Stadium, 1:40pm
Gold Coast vs Geelong, People First, 4:35pm
Hawthorn vs Essendon, MCG, 7:40pm
Adelaide vs Fremantle, Adelaide Oval, 8:10pm
Sunday, March 21
Melbourne vs St Kilda, MCG, 1:10pm
North Melbourne vs Collingwood, Marvel Stadium, 3:20pm
West Coast vs Port Adelaide, Optus Stadium, 4:40pm
