AFL fans across the Northern Territory can look forward to another thrilling year of elite football in 2026, with the Gold Coast SUNS and Melbourne Football Club once again set to bring action-packed matches to Darwin and Alice Springs.
In 2026, the Gold Coast SUNS will headline two exciting clashes at TIO Stadium. Their first match will see the SUNS take on St Kilda in Round 9 on Saturday 9 May in what is expected to be a high-energy contest. St Kilda were originally scheduled to play in Darwin at TIO Stadium in 2020, however that match was moved to Marvel Stadium due to COVID-19 restrictions, making 2026 their highly anticipated return to the Top End.
The SUNS will then return to the Territory for a second blockbuster in Round 10 this time facing Port Adelaide on Friday 15 May - marking the club’s return to Darwin for the first time since 2013. This game will also form part of Sir Doug Nicholls Round, celebrating the contributions of Indigenous and Torres Strait Islander players to the game, and giving fans the chance to engage with the rich culture and heritage of the Northern Territory.
In 2025, the SUNS delivered two outstanding matches for Top End fans - a sell-out crowd of over 12,314 against Hawthorn and an impressive attendance of just under 10,000 fans for the Western Bulldogs game. These results set the tone for another huge year in 2026.
In Central Australia, the Melbourne Football Club will return to TIO Traeger Park for their annual Heart of the Nation match, continuing their deep connection with the Red Centre community.
Melbourne will take on Greater Western Sydney (GWS) in Round 12 on Sunday 31 May, the Giants narrowly defeated the Demons 47-45 in a thrilling contest in 2023. Fans can expect another fiercely competitive showdown in Alice Springs.
These AFL games continue to offer a compelling opportunity to visit the Territory’s world-renowned tourism experiences. Fans travelling to Darwin can pair their footy trip with visits to Kakadu National Park and Litchfield National Park, while those heading to the Red Centre can explore the dramatic landscapes, waterways, art centres and cultural attractions of the MacDonnell Ranges around Alice Springs (Mparntwe).
The matches will also feature community engagement opportunities, giving fans of all ages the chance to meet their favourite players and immerse themselves in the Territory’s unique footy culture.
Quote from Minister for Major Events and Tourism and Hospitality Marie-Clare Boothby: “AFL is part of the Territory’s DNA, and we’re proud to keep delivering elite football for fans right across the NT in 2026. With two huge Gold Coast SUNS games in Darwin and Melbourne’s annual Heart of the Nation clash in Alice Springs, we’re giving Territory fans another season premium sport right in their backyard.
“These games are more than just great footy, they bring people together, fill our hotels, cafes and pubs, and showcase the Territory lifestyle to a national audience. Our government is here to back these opportunities that grow our visitor economy, inspire the next generation of Territory players, and remind Australians why there’s nowhere else like the NT.”
Quote from Head of AFL Northern Territory Sam Gibson: “We’re excited to welcome the Gold Coast SUNS and Melbourne Football Club back to the Territory in 2026. These games remain a highlight on the NT sporting calendar, drawing strong crowds and creating meaningful connections between our community, our players, and the game.
We’d also like to thank Tourism and Events NT and the Northern Territory Government for their ongoing support in making these matches possible. The continued passion and engagement from fans show just how much AFL means to Territorians, inspiring the next generation of players and fans alike.”
Quote from Joel Jeffrey, Gold Coast SUNS Player: “The trip up to Darwin is always special for me and one that I’ll be marking in the calendar,” the Wanderers TIO NTFL product said.
“It’s plenty of fun with all the boys, especially those with connections to the Territory, and the opportunity to go back and spend the week in the local communities is always a rewarding experience.
“The opportunity to return to Darwin to play during Sir Doug Nicholls Round is always extra special as well.
“We’ll be doing our best to make it 10 wins straight in Darwin for our Territory SUNS fans.”
To be the first to hear when tickets go on sale in December 2025, follow AFL Northern Territory on social media or keep an eye on the AFL Northern Territory website.
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