Hawthorn begins its 2026 finals campaign on Thursday night, taking on Fremantle in the First Qualifying Final at Optus Stadium.
The Hawks finished in fourth place with 15 wins, six losses, two draws after the home and away season, while the Dockers sit atop the league ladder with 19 wins and four losses.
These two sides met earlier in the season in what was an enthralling match up, with the Dockers running over the top of the Hawks late to win by 15 points.
The winner of Thursday night’s clash will secure a home Preliminary Final.
Wherever you’re watching from, be sure to cheer on the brown and gold with might!
Here's everything you need to know ahead of the game:
WHO: Fremantle v Hawthorn
WHAT: Qualifying Final
WHERE: Optus Stadium
WHEN: Thursday 3 September
TIME: 8.10pm (AEST)
BROADCAST: Channel 7 and Fox Footy/Kayo
How to watch
Following along at home? The game will be broadcast live on Channel 7, as well as Fox Footy and can be streamed through Kayo.
Don’t have Kayo? Click HERE to check out our Hawks on Demand membership and save on 12 months of Kayo.
Follow @hawthornfc on Instagram, X and Facebook to remain updated on all the behind-the-scenes action on game day.
Last time we met
Hawthorn (73) defeated by Fremantle (88) in Round 9, 2026.
Fremantle came from behind to deliver the Hawks a 15-point loss.
The Hawks led by 19 points and had the Dockers on the ropes early in the final quarter, but Fremantle dug in and managed its eighth straight win.
Jack Gunston (six goals, nine marks) and Nick Watston (three goals) were far and away the most dangerous players on the ground, with the ‘Wizard’ matching his attacking flair with defensive menace, showcased in a chase-down tackle on Brennan Cox to start the second term with a goal.
Karl Amon was strong at Optus Stadium, finishing with a game-high 31 disposals, 881 metres gained and seven marks.
Tickets and Membership
Tickets for the First Qualifying Final – Fremantle v Hawthorn on Thursday, 3 September at Optus Stadium are now sold out. Should further tickets become available, they will be released via Ticketmaster on a date to be confirmed. Limited travel packages remain via https://afleventoffice.com.au/
Head to our Membership Finals Hub via this link for detailed insight into the 2026 Toyota AFL Finals ticketing for Members.
In 2026 we’re doing it Our Way. It’s never too late to become a 2026 member with a variety of packages available. SIGN UP HERE!
What’s On
The Hawk Walk is back, and we’re storming Optus Stadium!
Meet at Arden Street Reserve at 5pm, with Club President Andy Gowers to make a special address before we walk across the Matagarup Bridge as one.
Getting to the game
Optus Stadium
333 Victoria Park Dr, Burswood WA 6100
By Public Transport
Public transport is included in your event ticket for three hours either side of the game.
By Car
There is no parking available at Optus Stadium on major event days.
