The MCG’s reputation as the ‘People’s Ground’ is well and truly alive, securing a new attendance record after the first 10 matches of the 2023 AFL season at the MCG, surpassing the previous record set in 2015.
After the opening 10 matches of the season at the MCG, 661, 446 fans and members have come through the gates, and by the conclusion of round four, 726, 781 people have attended the MCG, surpassing the previous highest attendance after ten games at the ‘G which was 612, 281 in 2015.The traditional season opener between Richmond and Carlton drew the biggest crowd so far this season, with 88, 084 fans and members witnessing a draw – a gripping spectacle to commence the season between old rivals.
The MCG hosted St Kilda’s 150th anniversary celebrations in round three when they faced Essendon in a rare home game at the ‘G, a night that brought past players to the stadium for a stirring pre-game presentation and recognition of those who have contributed to the club.
With both ANZAC Eve and ANZAC Day matches still to be played, the MCG is anticipating more large crowds that could see the stadium record an attendance figure for the year upwards of 875,000 by the conclusion of round six.
MCC CEO Stuart Fox said this is an outstanding achievement so early into the season.
“After our first ten matches of the season our total attendance reached 661, 446 – that’s a significant increase on the previous attendance record after the same amount of games played which was 612, 281 back in 2015,” Stuart said.
“We have already seen some huge crowds, from the traditional season opener to traditional rivals Collingwood and Richmond, and even recently with St Kilda hosting its 150th anniversary game here at the ‘G – there’s been some wonderful spectacles so early into the season.
“This result is a real testament to all fans and just once again proves why we refer to the MCG as ‘the People’s Ground’.
“Following a week with no games at the MCG due to Gather Round, we will welcome fans back for two huge matches across ANZAC Eve and ANZAC Day.”
Top five total attendance for the opening 10 matches at the MCG by season:
- 661,446 – 2023 (726, 781 after conclusion of Round 4)
- 612,281 – 2015
- 591,069 – 2012
- 569,039 – 2019
- 565,171 – 2013
The 10 AFL matches at the MCG in season 2023 in order of attendance (excludes Hawthorn v Geelong match):
- 88,084 Richmond vs Carlton, MCG (Round 1)
- 86,595 Geelong vs Collingwood, MCG (Round 1)
- 85,241 Collingwood vs Richmond, MCG (Round 3)
- 69,255 St Kilda vs Essendon, MCG (Round 3)
- 68,691 Hawthorn vs Essendon, MCG (Round 1)
- 60,744 Collingwood vs Port Adelaide, MCG (Round 2)
- 56,449 Richmond vs Western Bulldogs, MCG (Round 4)
- 55,861 Carlton vs Geelong Cats, MCG (Round 2)
- 48,103 Melbourne vs Western Bulldogs, MCG (Round 1)
- 42,423 Melbourne vs Sydney, MCG (Round 3)
.jpg)
