Hawthorn is delighted to strengthen its partnership with the City of Launceston as a Premier Partner ahead of the 2026 season.

It comes as Hawthorn prepares to celebrate its silver jubilee in Tasmania this season, commemorating 25 years of bringing elite footy to the state since its first match in Launceston in 2001, spanning an astonishing quarter of the Club’s VFL/AFL existence.

As part of the extended collaboration, the City of Launceston’s logo will feature on the sleeves of Hawthorn’s coaches' polos, as well as across match-day LED signage, the Club’s media walls and within player changerooms.

The City of Launceston will also play an important role in digital marketing and advertising initiatives, supporting memorable fan experiences while promoting regional activity and tourism to the state and events.

In addition to match-day branding, the City of Launceston will collaborate with Hawthorn on a range of creative initiatives that will invite the community to join in celebrating the Club’s 25th year in Launceston.

Hawthorn CEO Ash Klein said:

“We are proud to further cement our commitment to Tasmania by welcoming the City of Launceston to the Club as a Premier Partner.

“Led by Mayor Matthew Garwood and Chief Executive Officer Sam Johnson, we are excited to continue our partnership with the City of Launceston and look forward to collaborating with them across a range of key Club initiatives. 

“This partnership adds to our long-standing connection to Tasmania, spanning more than 25 years, and continues to solidify our home-away-from-home at UTAS Stadium.

“Together with the City of Launceston, we look forward to celebrating our 25 years of football success in Tasmania in 2026 and bringing together fans and supporters, both locally and interstate, to watch us play in Launceston, delivering significant economic impact."

City of Launceston Mayor Matthew Garwood said:

"Hawthorn’s 25-year connection with Launceston is something our city is incredibly proud of, and this Premier Partnership extension reaffirms just how deep and enduring that relationship is.

“For a quarter of a century, Hawthorn has helped bring elite AFL football to Northern Tasmania, creating unforgettable experiences for fans, inspiring young players, and delivering significant economic and tourism benefits for our city and region.

“This partnership is about more than logos and match days - it’s about shared ambition, community pride and celebrating what makes Launceston such a special place to host major sporting events.

“We look forward to working closely with Hawthorn to celebrate this milestone year, activate the city around games at UTAS Stadium, and continue building on a partnership that has delivered lasting value for both the Club and our community.”