The pre-match entertainment ahead of the 2020 Grand Final at the Gabba. Picture: AFL Photos

THE AFL welcomes the Queensland Government’s decision to make the Gabba the centrepiece stadium of the state’s Olympic Games should Queensland host the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

AFL CEO Gillon McLachlan said the GABBA had been an iconic ground for Australian football in the state and the Queensland Government’s decision to transform the GABBA into a 50,000-seat world-class venue would leave a lasting legacy for football, sport and the wider community.

“The GABBA is a world-class ground that has played host to football in the state for almost a century and we welcome the announcement today from Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk and Sports Minister Stirling Hinchliffe and look forward to working with the Government in ensuring the GABBA continues to play a major part in the growth of our game in Queensland for the next 100 years,” Mr McLachlan said.

“The GABBA has played a vital role in the growth of our game and was instrumental in us being able to deliver the 2020 Toyota AFL Premiership season, including hosting our first ever Grand Final outside of Victoria at night at the ground.  

"Today’s announcement that the ground will be transformed is great news for Queensland football fans who are already celebrating this week after Brisbane’s victory in the NAB AFLW Grand Final at the weekend.”