Football is a beloved pastime for Australians, with fans eagerly tuning in to watch the latest AFL, AFLW, and other football matches. Among the most common questions for viewers is: “Is the football on Channel 7?” As one of Australia’s leading broadcasters, Channel 7 plays a significant role in bringing football to the nation’s screens.
In this article, we’ll explore whether Channel 7 airs football matches, what games and leagues it covers, and how you can watch them. We’ll also look at the network’s broadcasting deals, streaming options, and alternatives for accessing your favorite games. Let’s kick off!
Does Channel 7 Broadcast Football?
Yes, Channel 7 is a major broadcaster of Australian Rules Football. It holds exclusive free-to-air rights for AFL and AFLW games, making it a go-to destination for fans who want to catch matches without subscribing to pay-TV or streaming services.
What Football Does Channel 7 Cover?
Channel 7’s football coverage focuses on the AFL, AFLW, and some grassroots football events. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:
1. AFL (Australian Football League)
Channel 7 is the official free-to-air broadcaster of AFL games, offering live coverage of:
- Thursday Night Football
- Friday Night Football
- Select matches during the weekend (Saturday and Sunday)
- The AFL Finals Series, including the Grand Final
The AFL Grand Final, in particular, is a marquee event for Channel 7, attracting millions of viewers annually.
2. AFL Women’s (AFLW)
Channel 7 also broadcasts AFLW matches, showcasing the best of women’s football. Key coverage includes:
- Regular-season games
- AFLW Finals Series
- AFLW Grand Final
The network’s AFLW coverage plays a vital role in growing the league’s fan base and promoting women’s sport in Australia.
3. State Leagues and Grassroots Football
In addition to AFL and AFLW, Channel 7 occasionally airs:
- State-level football (e.g., SANFL, WAFL, VFL)
- Local grassroots competitions during special events or promotional periods.
When Can You Watch Football on Channel 7?
Channel 7’s football schedule varies by season and competition. Here’s a general guide:
- AFL Season: Runs from March to September, with live games on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
- AFLW Season: Takes place from late August to November, with weekend broadcasts.
- Finals Series: The AFL and AFLW finals occur at the end of their respective seasons, with all key matches aired live.
You can check the official Channel 7 TV Guide for up-to-date schedules.
Streaming Football on Channel 7
For fans who prefer streaming over traditional TV, Channel 7 offers live and on-demand football through its digital platform, 7plus.
How to Watch Football on 7plus:
- Create a Free Account: Sign up for a free 7plus account at 7plus.com.au.
- Stream Live Games: Access live AFL and AFLW matches directly from your device.
- Catch Up On-Demand: Watch replays of key games if you missed them live.
Streaming via 7plus is an excellent option for fans on the go or those without access to a TV.
Broadcasting Deals: Channel 7 and AFL
Channel 7’s partnership with the AFL is part of a multi-billion-dollar broadcasting deal. Here are some key details:
- Broadcast Rights (2025–2031): Channel 7, in partnership with Foxtel, signed a $4.5 billion AUD deal to broadcast AFL games.
- Free-to-Air Exclusivity: Channel 7 remains the only network offering free-to-air coverage of live AFL games.
This deal solidifies Channel 7’s role as a cornerstone of football broadcasting in Australia.
What About Other Football Codes?
While Channel 7 is a leading broadcaster of AFL and AFLW, it doesn’t hold the rights to all football codes. Here’s where to watch other popular leagues:
- NRL (National Rugby League): Broadcast by Nine Network and available on Kayo and Foxtel.
- A-League (Soccer): Available on Paramount+ and occasionally on Network 10.
- International Soccer: Champions League and Premier League matches are typically shown on Optus Sport.
For a comprehensive football experience, fans may need to explore multiple platforms.
Alternatives to Watching Football on Channel 7
If Channel 7’s coverage doesn’t include your preferred games, here are some alternatives:
1. Foxtel and Kayo
- Foxtel and Kayo provide comprehensive coverage of all AFL and AFLW games, including those not aired on Channel 7.
- They also offer additional features like expert commentary, analysis, and match replays.
2. AFL Live Pass
- The AFL offers a subscription service for live streaming games through its app and website.
3. Attend Matches Live
- Nothing beats the atmosphere of a live game! Check your local team’s website for ticket availability.
FAQs About Watching Football on Channel 7
1. Is AFL Free to Watch on Channel 7?
Yes, AFL games broadcast on Channel 7 are free-to-air, meaning you don’t need a subscription to watch.
2. Can I Stream Football on Channel 7?
Yes, you can stream live and on-demand football matches via the 7plus platform.
3. Does Channel 7 Air All AFL Matches?
No, Channel 7 airs select AFL games each week. For comprehensive coverage, you’ll need access to Foxtel or Kayo.
Conclusion: Is the Football on Channel 7?
Yes, football is on Channel 7! From AFL and AFLW to occasional grassroots competitions, Channel 7 remains a central hub for Australian Rules Football. With its free-to-air broadcasts and streaming options via 7plus, the network ensures fans across Australia can enjoy the game they love.
Whether you’re tuning in for Thursday night games or the AFL Grand Final, Channel 7 has you covered. So grab your jersey, check the schedule, and settle in for another thrilling season of football.
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Do you watch football on Channel 7 or prefer streaming on 7plus? Share your thoughts in the comments below! For the latest football schedules and updates, visit the Channel 7 Official Website.
See Also: How much does the AFL make a year?