The AFL, Dan Does Footy, 7plus and Kayo Sports are launching a creator-led live stream that will include official AFL match vision during tonight’s Fremantle vs Sydney clash.
The Ultimate Footy Watchalong 2 will stream live from 8.00pm AEST on Thursday 9 July across the AFL YouTube channel, Kayo Sports and 7plus.
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The AFL said the stream is an industry first, integrating official match vision into a creator-led format. It will allow fans to watch the game alongside Daniel Gorringe, the Dan Does Footy crew, and expert talent from Seven and Kayo Sports.
The collaboration follows the first Ultimate Footy Watchalong in 2025. This year’s edition brings together the AFL, one of Australia’s biggest sports creators, and two of the country’s major football broadcast platforms.
How the Watchalong will work
The stream has been created for the Fremantle vs Sydney top-of-the-table clash. It is designed to sit alongside the official broadcast, giving supporters another way to follow the game live.
The AFL said the partnership with 7plus and Kayo Sports forms part of its broader digital content strategy. The collaboration also reflects the growing role of creator-led sports media in reaching fans across multiple platforms.
Bec Haagsma, AFL Executive General Manager Customer, Commercial and Technology, said the Watchalong was about “meeting fans where they are”.
“The Ultimate Footy Watchalong is about meeting fans where they are, embracing creator-led formats and working with broadcast partners to innovate around live sport.
“We thank our valued broadcast partners in Seven and Kayo Sports for their collaboration, and the Dan Does Footy crew for once again joining us on this journey, as we innovate the viewing experience, and bring this revolutionary fan engagement to life to grow AFL fandom.”
Creator-led sports media gains ground
Gorringe said access to official AFL match vision marked a significant step for creator-led sports coverage in Australia.
“I’ve always believed the new wave of creator-led media can sit alongside traditional broadcasting and bring something different to fans.
“Receiving access to official AFL match vision is a huge milestone for us and for Australian sport, and it’s proof that challenging the status quo can create new opportunities for fans and the game. We’re only getting started.”
Edward Deal, Founder of The Gifted Group, said the announcement showed how sports media has changed.
“Today’s announcement recognises how much sports media has evolved and the role creator-led platforms now play in growing the game and connecting with fans on a new level.
“Dan Does Footy has been leading that shift in ANZ, and this is another step in changing what sports media can look like. For us, the goal has been the first in this market to do it, so we are truly grateful to have gotten to a position where it will become a reality.
“A huge thank you to the AFL for backing the idea with Kayo Sports & Channel 7.”
7plus and Kayo Sports back the format
Kirsty Bradmore, Seven Network’s Head of Sport Digital, said Dan Does Footy had become a fan favourite because of the different tone it brings to football coverage.
“Dan Does Footy has quickly become a fan favourite because it brings a completely different energy to the game. The Watchalong is footy with the volume turned up — passionate opinions, plenty of laughs and a great way for fans to experience the match alongside Dan and the crew.
“We’re excited to partner with the AFL to bring this unique viewing experience live and free to 7plus Sport.”
Michael Neill, General Manager Fox Footy, said the Watchalong would offer Kayo Sports viewers a different way to watch Thursday night football.
“No one does footy like Dan Gorringe and his crew. The Watchalong will be loose, passionate and a very different way to watch Thursday Night Footy. We can’t wait for Kayo Sports viewers to enjoy this groundbreaking production.”
Where to watch
The Ultimate Footy Watchalong 2 will cover Fremantle vs Sydney on Thursday 9 July, 2026.
The stream will be live from 8.00pm AEST on the AFL YouTube channel, Kayo Sports and 7plus.