AFLW breaks all-time attendance record with two rounds left to play
The 2026 AFLW season broke the all-time attendance record with matches still to play.
The 2026 AFLW season has smashed the all-time attendance record, with more than 283,000 fans passing through gates so far and two rounds still to play. The previous record of 268,349 was set in 2025.
Round one alone drew more spectators than the opening two rounds combined last season. Two AFL/AFLW double-headers at Marvel Stadium helped: St Kilda versus Carlton drew 20,455 fans, and North Melbourne versus Geelong attracted 14,573.
Sydney's AFL/AFLW double-header at the SCG set a new Swans AFLW record with 16,672 fans. Heartland venues also hit new highs, with the Sydney Derby drawing 7,340 at Henson Park and Port Adelaide's clash with Adelaide drawing 5,411 at Alberton Oval.
- 283,000 fans
- Total attendance 2026
- 268,349 in 2025
- Previous record
- 20,455 at St Kilda vs Carlton
- Highest double-header
- 18 since 2022
- AFLW teams
Why it mattersRecord crowds show growing support for women's footy.
AustraliaThe attendance surge reflects growing Australian interest in women's sport and suggests increased funding and media coverage of the AFLW.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 2 h ago
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