Are there 18 teams in the AFL?
Yes, there are currently 18 teams in the Australian Football League (AFL).
The Australian Football League's Current Structure
The Australian Football League (AFL) stands as Australia's premier professional competition for Australian rules football. The league adopted its current name and national scope in 1990, evolving from the Victorian Football League (VFL) to reflect its broader Australian presence.
At present, the AFL is composed of 18 teams, showcasing a significant national footprint. These teams are based across five different states of Australia, highlighting the sport's widespread appeal and national reach. While the competition truly is national, a historical concentration of teams remains within Victoria, where Australian rules football has its deepest roots.
Geographical Distribution of AFL Teams
The 18 AFL teams are strategically positioned to engage fans and represent communities across the nation, though Victoria remains the heartland of the sport.
- Victorian Stronghold: A large majority of the teams—specifically ten—are located in Victoria. Among these, nine teams are situated within the vibrant Melbourne metropolitan area, underscoring the sport's profound cultural significance and immense popularity in the state's capital city.
- National Coverage: The remaining teams are spread across other Australian states, ensuring the league maintains its identity as a truly national competition. This distribution across five states illustrates the league's success in cultivating a nationwide presence for Australian rules football.
For more detailed information on the league and its history, you can explore the Australian Football League Wikipedia page.
