How to Watch the 2021 AFL Grand Final Live and for Free

Which lucky state will host the big game?

September is fast approaching, and it can only mean one thing for footy fans: the AFL Grand Final.

The one problem this year though, is that with most of the eastern states battling COVID-19 outbreaks with varying levels of restrictions and lockdowns, the date, time and place of the game are still up in the air.

With all this uncertainty, it’s understandable if you’ve fallen behind on all the key details about the game. To make sure you don’t miss it, here’s everything you need to know about the 2021 AFL Grand Final.

When is the 2021 AFL Grand Final?

Traditionally, the AFL Grand Final is played on the last Saturday in September at the MCG, but given Melbourne is currently in lockdown, the AFL is looking at other options.

For now, the Final is still scheduled to happen on the 25 September with a 2:30pm AEST bounce-down, but as we all know with COVID, anything can and will happen if it needs to.

Case and point, last year, the AFL had to completely buck tradition and have a twilight Grand Final in Queensland. If they can’t have this year's game in Melbourne, they’ll at least try to have the game at 2:30pm AEST on the 25th.

So, where will the AFL Grand Final be held?

Recent COVID outbreaks in Victoria have meant that hosting 100,000 people at the MCG is just not gonna fly, so the AFL is looking at other states to host the game.

According to Fox Sports, Perth’s Optus Stadium is the frontrunner to host the Final this year given the state’s stellar record of keeping COVID out.

What’s more, Perth look set to host the entire Finals series leading up to the big game. It’s common knowledge that the AFL favours Victoria for anything and everything, so as a Perth boy myself, it’s nice to win one over them for once.

How can I watch the AFL Grand Final live and for free?

COVID or no COVID, the AFL Grand Final has always been free to watch on Channel 7 and that ain’t gonna change anytime soon.

To catch the game, you can watch it free-to-air on Channel 7 straight from your TV or download the 7Plus app to stream it live.

If you miss the game ‘cos you’re working (boo) you can catch a replay on Kayo Sports. Just make sure you keep clear of spoilers.

The 2021 AFL Grand Final takes place on the 25 September 2021.

Header Image: Richmond Football Club