Essendon’s unofficial pre-season practice match has been confirmed in preparation for the 2026 Toyota AFL Premiership 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 Jack Jones Café and Bomber Shop will be open to all fans who attend.
 
Due to capacity limitations, if you plan to attend the practice match, please register your details here to help planning and ensure adequate amenities are available. 
For those who can’t attend, the match sim will be accessible via livestream on our website.
 
 
Practice match details:
 
Date: Friday 20 February
Time: 10:30am (AEDT)
Venue: NEC Hangar