Richmond Football Club is set to host a home game in Tasmania for the next two seasons, following a lucrative agreement. The Tigers will take the field in Hobart, while continuing to hold ten home games at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) and an additional replacement game for their members.
This arrangement precedes the anticipated inclusion of the Tasmania Devils in the AFL by 2028. Notably, Richmond will forgo hosting home games at Marvel Stadium in Melbourne, a venue that has historically seen poor attendance from Tigers fans. Former coach Damien Hardwick had previously expressed his dissatisfaction with the venue, stating in 2021, “I hate coming here … our people don”t come here, plain and simple.”
Despite this shift, Richmond will still compete at Marvel Stadium as the away team during the 2026 and 2027 seasons. Richmond”s chief executive, Shane Dunne, emphasized that the decision to host a nominal home game in Hobart was carefully considered. “Ultimately it made sense on a number of levels,” Dunne remarked in a statement. “There are obviously commercial considerations, but the decision went well beyond that.”
Dunne further highlighted the benefits for club members, stating, “Importantly, this deal will give our members access to 11 games at the MCG – 10 home games and a replacement game – as well as our game in Tasmania.” From a football standpoint, the club is hopeful of aligning its VFL fixture with this game, providing an opportunity for the developing squad to travel together. “These are invaluable experiences that will support the growth of the group,” he added.
The club plans to leverage its deep connection to Tasmania, referencing several notable players from the state, including Matthew Richardson, Jack Riewoldt, Royce Hart, Ian Stewart, Michael Roach, Brendon Gale, and current captain Toby Nankervis. However, Richmond will be seeking a more favorable outcome than the 48-point defeat it suffered against North Melbourne in a prior away game in Hobart during round 23 of this year.
