AFL CEO Andrew Dillon described Snoop Dogg as a “pioneer, performer, and true entertainer.”
Snoop Dogg (Source: Supplied)
It turns out that the rumours were true: rap icon Snoop Dogg will, in fact, headline this year’s AFL Grand Final pre-game entertainment on Saturday, 27 September.
The announcement marks Snoop Dogg’s performance debut at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) for what’s set to be one of the most memorable Grand Final spots in AFL history. While Snoop Dogg has been confirmed, additional Australian acts will be announced closer to the event.
However, the Gin And Juice rapper has experience performing on the world stage to promote a massive sporting event. In 2022, Snoop Dogg appeared at the Super Bowl Halftime Show, sharing the stage in a greatest of hip-hop performance with Dr Dre, Kendrick Lamar, Mary J. Blige, and Eminem.
Snoop Dogg said of the upcoming performance, “It’s an absolute honour to be hitting the stage at the AFL Grand Final — it’s one of the biggest events on the Aussie calendar. Can’t wait to bring the energy and celebrate with the fans. Let’s make it unforgettable.”
AFL CEO Andrew Dillon described Snoop Dogg as a “pioneer, performer, and true entertainer” in a statement about today’s announcement.
“The Toyota AFL Grand Final is the biggest event on the Australian sporting calendar — and this year, it just got a whole lot bigger,” Dillon said.
Don't miss a beat with our FREE daily newsletter
He continued, “Snoop Dogg is a pioneer, a performer, and a true entertainer. He’s played to packed stadiums around the world — but we think 100,000 fans at the MCG might just be his most iconic crowd yet.
“We want Toyota AFL Grand Final Day to be an unforgettable celebration of footy — and beyond the four quarters of the match, a celebration of culture, energy, and entertainment. Snoop fits that brief better than anyone.
“From Long Beach to the biggest stage in Australian sport — Snoop Dogg is coming to the MCG, and we’re ready to make history.”
Once again, this year’s performance will be presented by Mushroom Group. CEO Matt Gudinski commented, “The AFL Grand Final is the crown jewel of Australian sport, and each year they continue to raise the bar in world-class entertainment, and 2025 is no exception.
“Following unforgettable performances from global superstars Katy Perry, Robbie Williams, and The Killers, this year the AFL is taking it to the next level with global icon and cultural superstar Snoop Dogg, who will headline the Telstra Pre-Game Entertainment.
“My team at Mushroom are currently working closely with Snoop and his team to produce an unforgettable spectacle, that will once again set the standard for live entertainment at sporting events in Australia.
“This news is just the beginning - we’re also collaborating with the AFL to include incredible Australian artists and performers in the pre-game showcase, and we can’t wait to share more soon.”
Telstra’s Chief Marketing Officer, Brent Smart, concluded, “We’re thrilled to be hosting the Telstra Pre Game Entertainment for the fifth consecutive year and to welcome international icon Snoop Dogg to the MCG for one of the biggest events on the sporting calendar.
“Telstra has been backing the AFL for 23 years, and we’re passionate about delivering unforgettable experiences for fans. We’re confident Snoop Dogg will make this year’s celebration one to remember.”