AFL Queensland revealed the locations that will stage the Grand Finals of its 2026 finals series on Tuesday. The announcement follows a year of strategic planning aimed at delivering high‑profile matches across the state's most prominent sporting precincts.
The men's Grand Final will be played at Brisbane's Gabba, while the women's Grand Final is set for Gold Coast's Carrara Stadium. Both venues will be prepared to accommodate the expected surge of supporters, media crews and corporate partners anticipated for the season‑ending contests.
The decision aligns with the league's broader objective to maximise exposure for Australian rules football in Queensland and to leverage existing infrastructure to deliver a premium spectator experience.
Chosen venues
The Gabba, with a capacity of approximately 42,000, will host the men's championship match. Recent upgrades to the stadium's lighting, audio system and player facilities were completed earlier this year, ensuring the venue meets AFL standards for a Grand Final.
"The Gabba is an iconic arena that offers the perfect backdrop for the men's Grand Final," said AFL Queensland CEO Peter Barlow. "Our team has worked closely with stadium officials to guarantee a seamless event for players, fans and broadcasters alike."
Gold Coast's Carrara Stadium, which can seat around 25,000 spectators, will be the stage for the women's Grand Final. The venue's recent redevelopment included enhanced seating, improved media zones and upgraded flood‑lighting to accommodate evening fixtures.
Economic and community impact
Local businesses are poised to benefit from the influx of visitors expected for both Grand Finals. Hospitality operators, transport providers and retail outlets in Brisbane and the Gold Coast have already indicated preparations to handle increased demand.
"Hosting the Grand Finals will generate significant economic activity for our region and showcase Queensland as a premier sporting destination," noted Queensland Minister for Sport, Kate Jones. "We anticipate strong community engagement and a boost to tourism during the event weekend."
The AFL also plans community outreach programs tied to the Grand Finals, including junior clinics and fan zones, to foster grassroots participation and strengthen the sport's profile among younger audiences.
Looking ahead
The 2026 venue selections are part of a longer‑term roadmap that sees AFL Queensland evaluating additional locations for future finals matches, with a focus on regional centres such as Townsville and Cairns.
"Our aim is to rotate marquee events across the state where feasible, giving more Queenslanders the opportunity to experience top‑level AFL football firsthand," Barlow added.
The league will release detailed ticketing information and scheduling logistics in the months leading up to the finals series, ensuring fans have ample time to plan their attendance.