Kick a VIC out of the MCG in September…or October
by Daniel Emilio Amato

The location of the 2020 AFL Grand Final, which is set for 24 October at this stage, has bee the major talking point across the competition since the restart on 11 June. With the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic continuing its cruel assault on the state of Victoria, it looks increasingly likely we will see one of Australian sport’s longest traditions come to an abrupt end this season.

On April 12 2018, a mega-deal estimated at $500 million was made with Victorian premier Daniel Andrews’ labour government and the AFL for the showpiece of the competition to be played at the Melbourne Cricket Ground every season until at least 2057. This decision could only ever be compromised under extreme circumstances. Who would have thought just two years later we would be facing an extreme circumstance? Victoria has been the hardest hit state in Australia by a long way, with over 5900 people contracting COVID-19, and 275 new cases on 20 July. The next worst hit is New South Wales, which still has 2500 less cases.

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