Hawthorn will kick off its 2027 AFL campaign with a blockbuster clash against the Brisbane Lions in Round 1. 

The Hawks will host the Lions on Friday 19 March from 7.40pm at the MCG, in what is shaping up to be a thrilling battle under Friday night lights. 

The Round 1 clash comes just months after Hawthorn's heartbreaking preliminary final loss to the Lions earlier this year. 

The announcement follows Monday's Gather Round fixture reveal, where the AFL confirmed that Hawthorn would face Fremantle in a primetime clash at Adelaide Oval on Saturday 10 April. 

2027 Gather Round Fixture: Hawks v Dockers

Tickets for Round 1 of the 2027 Toyota AFL Premiership Season will go on sale at a later date, with details to be communicated in advance.

ROUND 1
Hawthorn v Brisbane Lions
Friday 19 March, 2027
MCG, 7.40pm (AEDT)