AFL and NRL Break All-Time Attendance Records in 2024

In 2024, both the Australian Football League (AFL) and National Rugby League (NRL) achieved all-time high attendance records, reflecting a heightened enthusiasm for live sports across Australia. The NRL’s total attendance reached 4,265,299, while the AFL attracted 8,243,908 fans, with the NRL experiencing a higher growth rate than the AFL this year.

AFL Attendance

The 2024 AFL season saw a total attendance of 8,243,908 for 215 events, averaging 38,344 fans per game. The Brisbane Lions vs Sydney Swans Grand Final at the MCG had the largest attendance, with 100,013 fans. This follows a strong performance in 2023, where the AFL recorded 8,076,630 attendees and an average of 37,741 per game.

NRL Attendance

The NRL’s 2024 season has seen a total attendance of 4,265,299 across 207 events, averaging 20,605 fans per game. The highest recorded attendance for a match this season was at the Grand Final, where the Panthers claimed their fourth consecutive premiership in front of 80,156 spectators. This marks a significant increase compared to previous years, with attendance figures of 4,086,606 in 2023 and 3,266,295 in 2022.

Interestingly, while attendance grew in 2024 for both leagues, the NRL experienced a more significant rise compared to the AFL. The NRL’s attendance increased by 178,693 (approximately 4.4%), while the AFL’s attendance grew by 167,278 (around 2.1%) during the same period.

Several factors have contributed to fans returning to the grandstands in 2024.

The excitement of returning to live sports after pandemic restrictions has significantly driven this number, as fans continue to reconnect with their teams and enjoy the atmosphere of live sport. Both leagues have also focused on enhancing the matchday experience, providing improved entertainment, better facilities, and increased community engagement, as well as promotional pricing and targeted marketing to make matches more accessible.

Despite the rising cost of living impacting many Australians’ discretionary spending, attendance at professional sports events remains resilient. A recent report indicated that approximately 21% of sports match attendees have increased their spending in the past year. Fans are prioritising their attendance at games over expenditures on food, merchandise, and other extras, showcasing a strong emotional investment in their teams.

The impressive attendance figures for both the NRL and AFL in 2024 not only reflect the growing interest in live sports but also highlight the leagues’ efforts to enhance the fan experience. As both codes continue to engage their audiences, maintaining this momentum will be crucial for future growth and sustainability in the face of economic challenges.

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