AFL Footy Tipping Gains Unexpected US Following Ahead Of Season Start

AFL Footy Tipping Gains Unexpected US Following Ahead Of Season Start...

The Australian Football League's (AFL) traditional "footy tipping" competition is seeing surprising interest from American sports fans as the 2026 season prepares to kick off March 18. The surge comes after ESPN2 secured US broadcast rights for 40 live games this season, exposing more Americans to Australia's fast-paced football code.

Footy tipping, a prediction game where participants guess weekly match winners, has become a cult favorite among US sports bettors and fantasy league players. Australian expat communities in cities like Los Angeles and New York are reportedly organizing workplace tipping competitions, while dedicated AFL fan clubs are hosting viewing parties.

"We've seen a 300% increase in US-based signups for our official tipping app since the broadcast deal was announced," said AFL Digital Manager Sarah Jenkins. The league has adapted its platform with US time zones and beginner guides to accommodate new international players.

The trend coincides with growing American interest in international sports. March typically sees increased sports betting activity due to NCAA basketball tournaments, with some analysts suggesting fans are diversifying into AFL as a fresh alternative. Sportsbooks like DraftKings now offer AFL futures markets alongside traditional American sports.

Australian players have taken notice. "Getting messages from mates in Chicago asking for tips is definitely new," said Melbourne Demons captain Max Gawn. The AFL season opener between Carlton and Richmond on March 18 will air live in US primetime, potentially driving further engagement.

While still niche compared to NFL or NBA fantasy leagues, the AFL tipping phenomenon highlights how streaming deals can create unexpected cultural exchanges. The league reports merchandise sales to US addresses have doubled since January, suggesting this may be more than a passing trend.