AFLW defends North Sydney Oval venue for historic Australia‑Ireland match

AFLW chief Laura Kane said the decision to stage the inaugural women's international rules match between Australia and Ireland at North Sydney Oval was based on fan data. The venue, with a capacity of less than 10,000, sold out for the August 1 game, prompting criticism from some players who preferred larger stadiums such as the 48,000‑seat Swans’ home ground or the SCG. Kane replied, “When we announced this game, it’s the first time, and we wanted to create an amazing atmosphere, and so our sellout is incredible,” adding that the league will move to bigger venues when the data shows they can fill them.

Ticket sales for the 2026 AFLW season were launched at Marvel Stadium, and the league has scheduled four double‑header matches alongside the men's AFL season, including St Kilda vs Carlton on August 9 at Marvel. A fifth double‑header is being considered. Geelong star Georgie Prespakis praised the atmosphere at North Sydney Oval, describing it as “amazing.” North Melbourne is chasing an unprecedented three‑peat after an unbeaten 2025 season.