Supporting a local team is a big part of Aussie culture, and Adelaide offers plenty of opportunities to join in the excitement.
Here’s your guide to the key sports teams and where to watch them in Adelaide.
AFL (Australian Rules Football)
The teams: Adelaide is home to two AFL teams: the Adelaide Crows and Port Adelaide Power. These teams have a fierce rivalry, and their matches, known as the Showdowns, are some of the most anticipated events of the season, drawing large crowds and intense local interest.
The league: The Australian Football League (AFL) is the premier competition for Australian rules football. The AFL season runs from March to September, culminating in the Grand Final, which is held at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). The league features 18 teams from across Australia, each playing 23 rounds during the regular season, followed by a finals series.
Where to watch: Both teams play their home games at Adelaide Oval, a world-class stadium located close to the city centre. The venue provides an electric atmosphere and excellent facilities for fans. If you have a ticket, public transport to and from the game is free, making it easy to get to the stadium. For more information on tickets, visit the Adelaide Crows website or the Port Adelaide Power website.
Basketball
The team: The Adelaide 36ers represent the city in the National Basketball League (NBL), Australia’s top basketball competition.
The league: The National Basketball League (NBL) features teams from across Australia, competing in a season that runs from October to April.
Where to watch: Home games are played at Adelaide Arena, known for its vibrant atmosphere and passionate fans. The arena is easily accessible by public transport. For tickets and schedules, visit the Adelaide 36ers website.
Cricket
The teams: Adelaide’s cricket scene is buzzing with talent. The South Australia Men and South Australia Women teams (formerly the Redbacks and Scorpions) represent the state in domestic competitions. Plus, the Adelaide Strikers light up the Big Bash League (BBL) with their thrilling T20 matches.
The League: The South Australia men’s and women’s teams compete in domestic competitions like the Sheffield Shield and the Women’s National Cricket League (WNCL). Adelaide also hosts One Day and Test Matches, drawing top international teams to the city. The BBL season runs from December to February, adding a festive cricketing atmosphere to summer evenings.
Where to watch: Catch all the cricket action at Adelaide Oval, a premier venue with a fantastic atmosphere. Whether it’s the fast-paced excitement of a BBL match or the classic tension of a Test, the Oval is the place to be. Public transport is free with a ticket to the game, making it easy to get there. For ticket information, visit the Adelaide Oval website.
Football (Soccer)
The team: Adelaide United competes in the A-League, Australia’s premier soccer competition.
The league: The A-League runs from October to May and features teams from across Australia and New Zealand. The league showcases both local and international soccer talent.
Where to watch: Home games are held at Coopers Stadium, which offers a great atmosphere for soccer fans. The stadium is located in Hindmarsh and is easily accessible from the city by public transport. For tickets, check out the Adelaide United website.
Ice Hockey
The team: Adelaide Adrenaline competes in the Australian Ice Hockey League (AIHL).
The league: The AIHL season runs from April to September and features teams from across Australia. The league is known for its fast-paced and exciting games.
Where to watch: Games are played at the Adelaide Ice Arena, providing a unique and exciting sports experience. The arena is located in Thebarton, and parking is available on-site. For schedules and tickets, visit the Adelaide Adrenaline website.
Netball
The team: The Adelaide Thunderbirds compete in the Suncorp Super Netball league, which is the highest level of netball in Australia.
The league: The Suncorp Super Netball league runs from May to August and features the best netball players from across Australia and around the world.
Where to watch: Home games are held at Netball SA Stadium, a top venue for netball fans. The stadium is located in Mile End and is easily accessible by public transport. For more information on tickets and schedules, visit the Adelaide Thunderbirds website.
Other major sporting events
AFL Gather Round: Adelaide hosts the AFL Gather Round each year, where all 18 AFL teams play in one city over one weekend. This event brings fans from all over Australia and adds an extra layer of excitement to the city’s sporting calendar.
Adelaide 500: The Adelaide 500 is a major motorsport event held annually on the streets of Adelaide. This Supercars Championship race is one of the most popular events on the motorsport calendar and offers a thrilling experience for racing fans. The event typically features concerts and other entertainment, making it a highlight of the year.
Tour Down Under: The Tour Down Under is an international cycling race held in and around Adelaide. This event attracts top cyclists from around the world and includes various stages that showcase the beautiful landscapes of South Australia.
Where to watch sport if you can’t attend the games
If you can’t make it to the stadiums, Adelaide has plenty of sports bars where you can catch the action. Popular spots include Cathedral Hotel, The Lion Hotel, and The Cumby. You can also live stream games on platforms like Kayo Sports, Stan Sport and through league-specific apps and websites.
Major broadcasters such as Channel 7 and Fox Sports regularly air live sports, ensuring you never miss out on the excitement.
