AFL News

Former player, media personality to join rival broadcaster in massive coup

“His role will see him provide live expert commentary on screen for the first time.”

Published by
Aidan Cellini

Port Adelaide great and galvanising media personality Kane Cornes, will join Channel 7's AFL coverage from 2025 and beyond.

The 300-gamer and four-time Power best-and-fairest winner has quickly become one of the most recognisable names in the media landscape following his retirement at the end of 2015.

Cornes' work across print, radio and television has become synonymous with football, making him one of the game's more identifiable commentators and analysts.

Now, he will switch from Channel 9 to 7, providing "live expert commentary on screen for the first time, as well as delivering opinion and analysis throughout the week across multiple programs".

ADELAIDE, AUSTRALIA - MAY 24: Kane Cornes of the Power walks from the field after his 300th and last game after the round eight AFL match between the Port Adelaide Power and the Richmond Tigers at Adelaide Oval on May 24, 2015 in Adelaide, Australia. (Photo by Daniel Kalisz/Getty Images)

“I'm thrilled to join the Seven Network in 2025 and beyond,” Cornes said.

“I have immense confidence in the network's leadership and the exciting direction of 7AFL's cutting-edge broadcast.

“The chance to work on the biggest games in free-to-air coverage and share my insights across 7NEWS and throughout the week is an incredible opportunity.

“Seven is the true home of the AFL, and next season promises to be the most exciting one yet, and I'm looking forward to being a part it.”

Seven Network Director of Sport Chris Jones said Cornes' commentary will take 7AFL's coverage to a new level in 2025, which comes as fans can stream the footy live and free on 7plus for the first time.

“Kane is an agenda setter who backs up his opinion with an unrivalled work ethic and passion for the game,” he said.

“Kane's demonstrated history of sharing his hard-hitting opinions with footy fans, paired with his signature candid commentary, will take Seven's AFL coverage to a new level in 2025.

“In a massive year of growth for Seven, the 2025 season will also see the introduction of digital rights, meaning footy fans all over Australia will be able to stream every round of the footy live and free on 7plus for the first time.

“As we embark on an epic run home to the 2024 AFL grand final – broadcast live and free on Seven and 7plus – we have our eyes set firmly on the future, and we cannot wait to share more of our plans with all Australians very soon.”

Kane Cornes (left) will play his final game on Sunday, May 24 against the Tigers. Source: elitesports.com.au.

It is understood that Fox was keen to lure Cornes while Channel 9 made it clear of their intentions to retain his services.

Cornes will work alongside Brian Taylor, James Brayshaw, Abbey Holmes, Matthew Richardson, Luke Hodge and Dale Thomas.

Published by
Aidan Cellini