Get ready for a game-changer: The AFL is dreaming big, and Brisbane 2032 could be the stage for Australian rules football’s Olympic debut. But here’s where it gets controversial—can a sport deeply rooted in Australian culture truly go global, and should it even try? Let’s dive in.
As the 2026 season looms, AFL CEO Andrew Dillon is not just focused on the immediate future. While cementing the Origin and Opening Round formats as fan favorites, Dillon has his eyes on a prize much bigger than a single season. In a recent Sydney visit, he teased Olympic-sized ambitions for the AFL, revealing conversations with Brisbane 2032 chief Andrew Liveris about bringing Australian rules football to the global stage.
And this is the part most people miss—this isn’t entirely uncharted territory. Dillon points to the 1956 Melbourne Olympics, where Australian rules football was showcased as an exhibition sport. “Our sport deserves to be on that stage,” he asserts, though the exact format remains under discussion with the Olympic Committee.
But the AFL’s global vision doesn’t stop there. Earlier this year, Dillon traveled to India, where he witnessed firsthand the sport’s growing grassroots presence. With nearly 10,000 young players across 10 states, India’s potential is undeniable. Yet, when asked about hosting AFL games there—similar to the NRL’s Las Vegas venture—Dillon remained cautious. “We do things differently,” he noted, emphasizing the AFL’s unique approach to expansion.
Closer to home, the State of Origin concept is evolving, with players expressing enthusiasm for longer training camps. While an Allies team (combining Queensland and NSW players) isn’t confirmed, Dillon assures the format is here to stay in some shape or form. Rule changes, too, are on the horizon, aimed at speeding up the game and keeping fans on the edge of their seats—though not everyone, including Melbourne ruckman Max Gawn, is convinced.
Here’s the bold question: Is the AFL’s push for global recognition a necessary evolution or a risky departure from its roots? As Dillon’s plans unfold, one thing’s clear—the AFL is playing the long game, and Brisbane 2032 could be its biggest play yet. What do you think? Is the AFL’s Olympic dream a slam dunk, or a step too far? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
