how long is an afl game

Australian Rules Football (AFL) is one of Australia’s most popular sports. Whether watching on television or cheering from the stands, fans are deeply passionate about supporting their favourite teams. But have you ever wondered, How long is an AFL game? Let’s explore the fundamentals of AFL game timing and everything you need to know.

Key points about the length of an AFL game

1. Game Structure

  • An AFL game consists of four quarters.
  • Each quarter is 20 minutes of playtime.
  • However, stoppage time extends the actual duration of each quarter.

2. Stoppage time (time-on)

  • When the ball goes out of bounds, or following an injury, the clock pauses for breaks similar to those experienced during a mark.
  • Normally, each quarter runs between 27 and 30 minutes given the extra stoppage time.

3. Quarter breaks

  • There’s a 6 minute pause after the first and third quarters.
  • The break for half-time runs 20 minutes. This provides sportsmen time to relax and let coaches plan.

4. Total match time

  • With breaks and stoppages factored in, an AFL match typically lasts between two and two and a half hours.

Detailed breakdown of AFL game timing

1. Quarter durations

  • While each quarter officially lasts 20 minutes, stoppage time (known as “time-on”) means real-time play can extend to 27–30 minutes.
  • Examples of events that cause time-on include:
    • A Football player marking the ball.
    • Free kicks.
    • The ball going out of bounds.
    • Injuries that halt play.

2. Breaks between quarters

  • Short rests following the first and third quarters let players relax and sip beverages.
  • The longer half-time interval will be much appreciated by fans for stretching their legs or snack-time. It lets the teams also go over their game strategies.

3. Pre-match and post-match activities

  • Warm-ups and team introductions usually run 10 to 15 minutes both before and after the game starts.
  • Post-game speeches, interviews, and celebrations for noteworthy games or finals could provide viewers viewing live more time.

Why AFL games feel longer

  • Stoppage time ensures the game flows smoothly but adds to the overall length.
  • Dramatic finishes and build-up moments create an engaging viewing experience, making the game feel like an intense spectacle.
  • Overall, an AFL match lasts around 2 to 2.5 hours, making it ideal for both home viewers and stadium-goers.

AFL finals and extra time

A regular-season game may get long. Extra time is used, though, should score tie at the end of four quarters during the AFL Finals Series and a champion needs to be decided. The following describes the situation:

  • Two halves totalling 5 minutes apiece.
  • Should the game be tied after additional time, the competition carries on until the next score—sometimes known as a “golden point”.

Comparing AFL to other sports

AFL vs Soccer: While most delays cause the clock to stop, soccer games run ninety minutes plus stoppage time. Because of stoppages and longer quarters, AFL games typically take more time to play.

AFL vs Rugby: With 40-minute halves and continuous play, rugby games last 80 minutes, so they are shorter than AFL games in real time.

AFL vs Cricket: AFL against Cricket: Test matches, which run five days, or a few hours, seem to be shorter than cricket games.

Fun facts about AFL game timing

  • The longest AFL game ever recorded was in 1933, lasting 109 minutes, due to numerous stoppages.
  • In 2020, AFL quarters were shortened to 16 minutes due to COVID-19 restrictions, reducing overall game length.

Tips for Watching an AFL Game

  • Plan Your Time: Whether watched on TV or in the stadium, a match should run roughly 2.5 hours.
  • Arrive Early: If you are attending live, arrive early to locate your seat and enjoy the pre-game events.
  • Enjoy the Breaks: Take food, socialising, or game discussion quarter- and half-time breaks.
  • Know the Rules: Knowing the reasons for stoppage time—free kicks, marks, etc. helps you to appreciate the game better.

Conclusion 

An AFL game consists of four 20-minute quarters, but with stoppage time, each quarter typically lasts 27–30 minutes. Including breaks and stoppages, the total match time is 2 to 2.5 hours. For fans, the excitement, strategy, and occasional extra time during finals make AFL a thrilling spectacle. Whether watching live or on TV, an AFL game is the perfect way to spend an afternoon or evening.