2016 AFL Grand Final Trends In US As Australian Football Gains Fans

2016 AFL Grand Final Trends In US As Australian Football Gains Fans...

The 2016 AFL Grand Final is trending in the U.S. today as interest in Australian Rules Football grows among American sports fans. The match, held on October 1, 2016, saw the Western Bulldogs defeat the Sydney Swans in a historic upset, ending a 62-year championship drought.

Australian football has gained traction in the U.S. in recent years, with ESPN broadcasting AFL games and grassroots leagues forming in cities like Los Angeles and New York. The 2016 final resurfaced this week after a viral social media post highlighted its dramatic finish, drawing new viewers to the sport.

The Bulldogs' 13.11 (89) to 10.7 (67) victory remains one of the AFL's most memorable underdog stories. Key players like Bulldogs captain Easton Wood and Norm Smith Medal winner Jason Johannisen have become familiar names among U.S. fans following the league.

Australian football's physicality and fast pace appeal to American audiences accustomed to NFL and rugby. The AFL has capitalized on this interest, scheduling preseason matches in the U.S. and partnering with American broadcasters.

Today's trending status reflects both nostalgia from longtime followers and discovery by new fans. With the 2026 AFL season underway, the league's U.S. fanbase continues expanding, making historic matches like the 2016 final relevant again.