AFL
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Queensland Premier confirms AFL will move more teams north

AFL

Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has confirmed there has been talks with AFL CEO Gillon McLachlan to move the entire league to Queensland on a two-month deal.

Speaking on Wednesday morning, Palaszcuzuk told McLachlan that Queensland would be open to welcoming more teams into the state amid the growing COVID-19 concerns in New South Wales.

In return, Palaszcuzuk wants just one thing: the 2020 AFL Grand Final.

"I can reveal that the AFL has approached Queensland to move more of its teams and players here to Queensland," the Premier said in parliament. "A short time ago, I spoke to AFL CEO Gillon McLachlan. He is looking to book accommodation for hundreds of players and officials at Queensland hotels for two months."

Plans have been made for the Demons to join a Queensland hub, however it has yet to be confirmed if the Swans and Giants will be among teams moving north.

Five games are scheduled to be played at the SCG and Giants Stadium over the next two weeks.

"I stress none of these measures can happen without strict quarantine protocols and the COVID management plan that has allowed the AFL season to proceed," Palaszczuk said. "This is another way in which Queensland is helping Victoria.

"Given the choice between not having a season and having it based in Queensland, I think I know what the fans would like to happen. It means more Queenslanders here can go to see that games."

Queensland is currently hosting St Kilda, North Melbourne, Essendon, Western Bulldogs and Carlton in Brisbane and the Gold Coast, forcing the state to consider creating a third hub in Far North Queensland.

The Eagles and Dockers previously called Queensland home when they set up a hub for the season restart, but have since returned to Western Australia and will face off this weekend in Perth.

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