The AFL’s 19th team have officially launched their new team name, jumper and colours, but Tasmania’s entry into the competition could be pushed back due to a little-known clause.
They will be known as the Tasmania Devils and the colours will be the traditional myrtle green, primrose yellow and rose red with the jumper featuring the iconic map of the island state.
Richmond great and 7AFL commentator Matthew Richardson was in Devonport for the historic announcement.
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“The Devil army now needs to fight even harder to ensure we deliver the club in 2028,” club board member Kath McCann told the Hobart launch.
The team had been slated to debut in the AFL men’s competition in 2028, however controversy is still lingering over the proposed 23,000-seat stadium at Macquarie Point.
The AFL granted the licence and signed binding commitments with the Tasmanian Government that included partnering with the Federal Government for the construction of the stadium.
There’s a state election on Saturday and the result could decide more than just the next government.
“We’ll stay out of the politics. We’ve got a long-term arrangement with the Tasmanian government, they’ve been a great supporter of the 19th team,” AFL CEO Andrew Dillon said.
That long-term arrangement includes a controversial clause in the contract — “no new stadium, no team.”
The Liberal government has signed off on a 715 million dollar stadium, which could blow out past one billion.
But if Labor wins on Saturday, it will need to renegotiate with the AFL.
However, 7NEWS reporter Mitch Cleary revealed the agreement states the stadium must be 60 per cent built by October 2027 or else the AFL can push the entry date back 12 months.
“Stakeholders believe the political and planning process could force an entry delay,” Cleary added.
On Sunday, the new club announced $10 “founding memberships”, which will give willing fans the title of “founding member for life”.
“The club has made a decision to release a founding membership that will allow as many Tasmanians as possible to be a part of the club,” chair Grant O’Brien said.
“Our membership offering will evolve over the coming years, but for now, we are proud to provide one price and one way for everyone to become a founding member.
“We encourage all Tasmanians and football fans to sign up as a founding member and become part of the team.”
More to come …