AFL Considers Radical In-Season Tournament With Prize, Tasmania Entry 2028

The AFL is exploring the introduction of a radical in-season tournament similar to the NBA Cup, aimed at creating more marquee moments and increasing fan engagement. The proposal, discussed among AFL executives and all 19 club CEOs, would coincide with Tasmania joining the league as the 19th team in 2028 and involve a significant fixture overhaul. Under the plan, the premiership season would be shortened, with teams playing each other only once plus rivalry and Gather Rounds, while the in-season tournament would fill the remaining games. Prize money of up to $5 million for the winning club has been floated, and the tournament could even grant the winner a finals berth. The tournament matches would be separate from the premiership season, possibly played every four to six weeks or during a mid-season break. The idea has received support from the majority of clubs and is being further developed by a subcommittee of CEOs as part of preparing the league for the next 5-10 years.