Update as of 03/03/2025 : AFL Season Opener in Doubt as Cyclone Alfred Nears Brisbane – Will the Gabba Game Go Ahead?
The AFL is closely monitoring Tropical Cyclone Alfred, which poses a significant threat to the season-opening match between the Brisbane Lions and Geelong Cats at the Gabba on Thursday, March 6. The cyclone, currently a Category 1 system, is expected to intensify to Category 2 before making landfall near Brisbane, bringing heavy rainfall and destructive winds.
AFL CEO Andrew Dillon emphasized that the safety of fans and players is the league’s top priority. The AFL is in continuous communication with the Bureau of Meteorology and the Queensland government to assess the situation. Dillon stated that while the plan is for the game to proceed as scheduled, the league has contingency plans, including the possibility of rescheduling the match during Round 3, when both teams have a bye.
The unpredictable nature of the cyclone means that a final decision may be made as late as the day of the game. Dillon acknowledged that weather patterns can change rapidly, and the AFL is prepared to be flexible, drawing on experiences from the COVID-19 pandemic to adapt to unforeseen circumstances.
Local authorities are taking precautionary measures in anticipation of the cyclone’s impact. Theme parks and universities in the region have announced closures, and ferry services have been suspended until further notice. Residents are advised to prepare for potential evacuations and severe weather conditions, including gale-force winds and significant rainfall.
The AFL’s decision will hinge on the latest weather forecasts and advice from emergency services. Fans planning to attend the match are urged to stay updated through official AFL communications and local news outlets for the latest information regarding the game’s status.
The highly anticipated 2025 AFL Opening Round is under threat as Tropical Cyclone Alfred barrels toward Queensland, bringing extreme weather conditions that could disrupt key fixtures, including the season opener between Brisbane and Geelong at the Gabba on March 6.
With over 4 million residents in Southeast Queensland on alert, the cyclone is expected to make landfall later this week as a Category 2 storm. The system is forecast to bring torrential rain, damaging winds, and potential flash flooding, raising serious concerns about player safety, fan attendance, and the viability of hosting the match under such conditions.
For fans, the AFL Opening Round represents the beginning of another thrilling season, a moment eagerly awaited by supporters who have endured months without footy. A packed crowd was expected at the Gabba, with excitement reaching fever pitch as Brisbane looked to build on last season’s finals run against a strong Geelong outfit. However, with the Bureau of Meteorology issuing storm warnings, the AFL is now scrambling to assess its options, including possible rescheduling or even relocating the match.
The league is closely monitoring weather updates, with officials considering contingency plans. While the priority remains the safety of players and supporters, there is also concern over the logistical nightmare that a postponement or venue change could cause. Given that the AFL has not faced a natural disaster disrupting its season opener in 33 years, the situation remains unprecedented.
The looming cyclone has already led to emergency warnings, with Queensland authorities urging residents to prepare for possible evacuations. Public transport services may also be affected, adding further uncertainty to whether fans will be able to safely travel to and from the game.
Beyond the AFL, the severe weather is expected to impact communities across the region. Gale warnings have been issued for coastal areas, with waves forecast to reach 3–5 meters. Power outages and transport disruptions are also possible, further complicating event planning for the league and clubs involved.
As the countdown to Round 1 continues, AFL supporters remain hopeful that the worst of the cyclone will pass before game day. However, with safety the number one priority, all eyes are now on the AFL’s next move as it weighs the risks of proceeding as scheduled.
