Why is music playing after goals in the AFL Grand Final?

Tom Naghten

Why is music playing after goals in the AFL Grand Final? image

In a Grand Final first, in addition to the roar of the crowd, music is echoing around the MCG after each goal as Geelong and Brisbane do battle for the premiership.

Some players have become almost synonymous with particular songs, such as Charlie Cameron and John Denver's "Take Me Home, Country Roads", but those sort of scenes are typically reserved for home games.

The 2025 Grand Final is the first time the MCG has got on board with the musical accompaniment to goal celebrations.

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It's a decision which won't be met positively by everyone, with some vocal opponents of the attempt at fan engagement.

After the Cats' big win over Port Adelaide in round 21, Geelong coach Chris Scott shared his dislike of the trend, having been subjected to four consecutive plays of "Macarena" after Jack Martin got on a roll at GMHBA Stadium.

"The music after goals is not my thing, at all," Scott said.

"Ask me what I'd change in the AFL, that's it."

In response to the announcement that songs would be played after goals in this year's decider, the AFL Fans Association shared their thoughts, revealing most fans weren't in favour of the move.

So, to answer the question, why is music playing after goals? Well, because the AFL said so.

Tom Naghten

Tom Naghten is a senior editor at The Sporting News Australia where he's been part of the team since 2017. He predominantly covers boxing and MMA. In his spare time, he likes to watch Robbie Ahmat's goal against the Kangaroos at the SCG in 2000.