The AFL has announced today that the 2021 Toyota AFL Finals Series will immediately commence in the week following Round 23 of the home and away season.

The previously scheduled pre-finals BYE round will be held over and, in the event it is required, be available to use across the finals series or in the lead up to the 2021 Toyota AFL Grand Final.

To assist clubs with their training plans, the AFL informed the clubs who have qualified, or are contending for the 2021 Toyota AFL Finals Series, of the decision last night.

AFL Executive General Manager Clubs and Broadcasting Travis Auld said the decision was made to best mitigate the uncertainty that continues to exist in the community across the country.

“As we continue to navigate such uncertain times and the challenges associated with delivering matches across multiple states, we want to ensure the momentum of the season isn’t compromised in the lead up to the 2021 Finals Series,” Mr Auld said.

“We will approach the finals as we have the last 18 months, and that is to remain flexible and agile while monitoring an evolving set of circumstances in front of the competition.

“Our game is not immune to the uncertainty and the challenges in the wider community. We have had to make decisions all year to mitigate risk to keep the season going and now to ensure we deliver fans an epic and memorable month of AFL Finals.

“If circumstances require in the lead up to the 2021 Toyota AFL Grand Final, then we have the ability to pause for a week, ensuring we deliver on our commitment to provide the two competing clubs, their members and fans, the biggest and best sporting event of the year.”

The 2021 Toyota AFL Grand Final is scheduled for Saturday September 25, 2021.