Bruce is back: McAvaney a pivotal member of Seven’s revamped AFL team

Australian sports broadcasting legend Bruce McAvaney will play a pivotal role in Channel Seven’s revamped AFL coverage in 2025, confirmed to host the network’s coverage on Sundays and for marquee matches.

In another bold move as Seven enters the first phase of a seven-year $4.5 billion broadcasting deal with Foxtel and Telstra – the biggest sports rights deal in Australian history – the network’s move to use McAvaney as host for the final three matches last season including the grand final has been a springboard for his return to TV screens and a strong presence on the AFL coverage.

Before last September’s three-match foray, Australian Football Hall of Fame member McAvaney’s last AFL appearance was the 2020 grand final between Richmond and Geelong.

“I’ve always had a deep passion for the game, but returning to the 7AFL team for the 2024 finals series reminded me just how much I love being part of it,” McAvaney said in a statement.

“I can’t wait to be back alongside Seven’s outstanding football team in a hosting role for the 2025 season.”

Seven’s director of sport Chris Jones, who has introduced a raft of changes including new signings Kane Cornes, Nick Riewoldt and Age columnist Caroline Wilson, was rapt to announce McAvaney’s return.

Loading

“Bruce McAvaney is simply unrivalled and the greatest sports broadcaster of our generation. He is a beloved member of the Seven family, and we are thrilled that he is returning to our AFL coverage for Sunday nights and marquee matches this season,” he said.

“When Bruce returned to our AFL coverage during the finals in 2024, we saw an outpouring of love from footy fans all over the country, and we can’t wait to see Australians embrace him again throughout the 2025 season.”