Perth on standby to host AFL grand final if MCG is ruled out due to Melbourne’s COVID lockdown

The AFL says Perth will host the 2021 AFL grand final if the MCG is ruled out due to the ongoing COVID-19 lockdown in Victoria.

AFL chief executive Gillon McLachlan said he hoped to make a final decision “early next week” after speaking with the Victorian government.

If Perth Stadium is to host the grand final, it will be the second consecutive year the season decider will be played outside of Melbourne.

The Gabba in Brisbane hosted the 2020 grand final.