Western Australia could be front and centre for the AFL Grand Final.
It has been reported that AFL CEO Gillon McLachlan has reached out to the Western Australian Government among other states to prepare a contingency plan if the league is unable to host the AFL Grand Final at the MCG.
McLachlan has mentioned that the league is currently in talks with representatives from Western Australia, South Australia and Queensland about the possibility of hosting the AFL Grand Final if Victoria is not able to do so.
Brisbane’s Gabba hosted last year’s AFL Grand Final after the COVID-19 situation in Victoria meant that the MCG was not a viable option.
As no surprise, McLachlan also confirmed that New South Wales was not in the running due to the current COVID situation in the state with another further 291 cases confirmed today.
Why Optus Stadium would be the best host
If it is all about revenue then Optus Stadium is the clear favourite due to the fact Optus Stadium has the largest capacity out of the prospective venues.
However, it isn’t just about the amount of money the AFL can make back, it is also about the game day experience at the stadium and of course on TV.
With the current ability to hold capacity crowds and to activate the surrounds of the stadium with eased restrictions, Optus Stadium would make for the ideal AFL Grand Final experience.
Also, further proof that Optus Stadium is the ideal choice, the stadium was previously voted the best AFL stadium in Australia.
Many commentators also haven’t provided rave reviews from last years Grand Final host the Gabba – so perhaps the AFL will be looking for a more attractive option.
While no official announcement has been made regarding the WA Governments interest to hold the event or any preferences indicated by the AFL – more news will likely follow in the coming week(s) as the contingency plans are pieced together.
Now we just need West Coast and Fremantle to finish the season strong and to make the top 8 – giving WA a great chance to make a strong run in the 2021 AFL Finals.
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