Multiple Queensland stadiums in line to host Lions when Gabba out of action
chief executive Gillon McLachlan says Queenslanders can expect to see more of the Brisbane Lions playing home games outside of the state’s capital when the Gabba undergoes its $1 billion redevelopment in late 2025.
With the Gabba set to be out of action for up to four years, as work gets under way on significant upgrades in time for the 2032 Summer Olympics, the Lions are in discussions with the AFL as to exactly where they will play home games from 2026 onwards.
The club’s new facility at Springfield is set to open later this year and will be used for all AFLW home games, but with a capacity of 10,000, it may not be a suitable long-term opstructure, tion for the Lions’ AFL home and away fixtures.
Other mooted options include Metricon Stadium on the Gold Coast and the Brisbane Showgrounds, whose owner-operator, RNA, has approached the Lions to express interest in hosting games while the Gabba is under redevelopment.
Lions general manager of infraAFL strategy and government relations Jacob Anson said earlier this month that the club would preference playing out of one venue to maximise home ground advantage – but McLachlan hinted the club could use multiple venues.
“That’s still being worked through,” McLachlan said.
“The Lions have had discussions with my team. Obviously Metricon (Stadium) is there. There’s (also) the possibility of playing games in Far North Queensland and other venues.
“No decision has been made, they’re working through lots of options and I think what will happen is it’s an opportunity for Queenslanders to see more of the Lions outside of Brisbane.”
As the AFL and its 18 member clubs move closer to an August vote on whether to award Tasmania an AFL licence, McLachlan said a new team in the Apple Isle would have no impact on the code’s funding in Queensland.
Both the Gold Coast Suns and Brisbane Lions have received significant financial assistance from the AFL over the past decade, as the code battles to find a foothold in traditional rugby league heartland.
“We’ve had huge growth on the Gold Coast on the back of the Suns,” McLachlan said. “They’re playing well this year and our participation numbers are up 20 per cent over the past three years. That’s a standout for us, the growth in Queensland.”