Essendon will take on Richmond and St Kilda for their pre-season practice games ahead of the 2026 season.
The Dons will host the Tigers at the NEC Hangar on Friday 20 February at 10:30am (AEDT), followed by a VFL practice match between Essendon and Richmond.
The Saints clash will be the Club’s official AAMI Community Series fixture on Saturday, February 28th, with Mars Stadium to play host as part of Ballarat’s three games throughout the league-wide series.
The two hitouts provide welcome action for the Bombers against external opposition before their season officially starts with a round one blockbuster against the Hawks - the traditional rivals to face off under Friday night lights at the MCG on March 13.
Essendon pre-season fixture:
Essendon v Richmond – unofficial practice match
Date: Friday 20 February
Time: 10:30am (AEDT)
Venue: NEC Hangar
St Kilda v Essendon – AAMI Community Series (SOLD OUT)
Date: Saturday, February 28
Time: 3:10pm AEDT
Venue: Mars Stadium (Ballarat)
