The 2020 AFL season will restart on Thursday, June 11, with clubs permitted to return to training from this Monday, May 18. 

AFL CEO Gillon McLachlan made the announcement today, in a boost for all football fans around the country. 

Details relating to the fixture are expected to be unveiled as early as next week, with the league to announce games in 4-6 week blocks as the season progresses. 

Clubs will initially train in maximum groups of eight, before resuming full contact training from Monday, May 25. 

All AFL players and selected staff have undergone COVID-19 testing this week, in preparation for their return to training. 

They will also be subject to a strict set of protocols throughout the training phase, and when games return, to limit the possibility of infection. 

“Today is a significant step in getting footy back for everyone - our fans, our clubs, players, coaches, officials and staff, our broadcast and our corporate partners, and all who love the game,” McLachlan said. 

“We know, as this situation continues to evolve, we have to remain agile and flexible to be able to adapt where necessary. 

“We need to ensure we continue to prioritise the health and welfare of everyone.  Importantly, we must not place any burden on the public health system. 

“We have developed our model as the best option for returning to play, and we’ve done so following extensive consultation, including with the federal, state and territory governments and chief health officers.”