The Sydney Swans are just one day out from launching the 2026 AFL season in a clash with Carlton at the SCG. Here is everything you need to know ahead of Opening Night in the return of Red and White News, presented by 7+ Sport. 

Swans return to the SCG

The Sydney Swans will return to the SCG for the first time this year to launch the AFL season in a hotly-anticipated clash with Carlton from 7:30pm AEDT.

40,000 fans are expected to flood Moore Park on Thursday evening with pre-game celebrations planned at Sydney Swans HQ and along Driver Avenue. Discover what's on HERE. Plus, The March is back with members and fans invited to form a guard of honour from HQ to the SCG from 6:15pm. 

Cox announces three club debutants

In a press conference on Wednesday, senior coach Dean Cox announced that three club debutants would run out onto the SCG for the first time; Charlie Curnow, Malcolm Rosas and Jai Serong. The trio of experienced recruits impressed in the pre-season and are set to bolster the forward and backline.

The final team will be announced at 6:20pm on Wednesday evening. 

Charlie Curnow to play 150th career match

While Curnow will run out in his first official game for the Swans, Opening Night also marks his 150th career match. The key forward made his debut for Carlton in Round 2 of 2016 - against the Sydney Swans - and played 10 seasons before requesting a trade at the conclusion of last year. 

Speaking to Sydney Swans Media, Curnow reflected on running out in new colours. 

"150 will definitely feel a bit different to my last milestone game, being in different colours. But 150 makes me reflect on, I guess, coming back from some pretty serious injuries, getting to play with my brother, obviously playing at an awesome club, Carlton Football Club, and I love my time there.

He continued, "...but I'm also excited for a new, fresh start also."

03:20

"That 'one' game indicates a new and fresh start" - Curnow

Charlie Curnow reflects on playing 150 careers games on Thursday, including his time at Carlton, overcoming injury, playing with his brother, and a fresh start in the red and white.

Injury update

This week it was confirmed that Braedan Campbell would miss the start of the season after sustaining a stress fracture in his shin. A timeline for Campbell’s return to play will be determined following specialist consultations.

Meanwhile, Taylor Adams who sustained a partial achilles tear in the pre-season is available and expected to return to play through the VFL. Harry Cunningham is just one week away from return after a quad strain. 

Read the full report, HERE.

Save the date: Sydney Swans Fan Day, presented by Volkswagen

In other news, Sydney Swans Fan Day, presented by Volkswagen, will return to Sydney Swans HQ this March. 

On Saturday, March 28 we're welcoming our members and fans for a day packed with footy, food and fun. Did we mention it’s FREE?! Save the date and plan your visit, HERE.