AFL Grand Final Features Cody Simpson in Stunning Comeback Performance

AFL Grand Final Welcomes Cody Simpson

American popstar Katy Perry will be joined by Australian singer-turned-swimmer Cody Simpson for the AFL Grand Final pre-game entertainment. Simpson will perform in front of a large crowd at a stadium for the first time since he decided to pursue swimming in 2019. He dropped the guitar and microphone to chase his Olympic dream, having swum competitively as a kid, before music got in the way.

Simpson's Sporting Journey

• Simpson was part of Australia’s 2022 Commonwealth Games team.
• He won gold as a heat swimmer at Birmingham 2022 for Australia’s men’s freestyle relay team.
• Simpson did not qualify for the Paris 2024 Olympics.

Entertainment Lineup

Alongside Simpson, multi-time ARIA award-winning artist Christine Anu, singer-songwriter Zipporah Corser-Anu, and footy classic performer Mike Brady will also grace the stage. Mother-daughter duo Christine and Zipporah will perform during the First Nations ceremony, while Brady will evoke nostalgia with his iconic songs during the AFL retiree motorcade ceremony.

Simpson Expresses Excitement

“I’m stoked beyond words to have been asked to sing the biggest national anthem of the year at the AFL grand final,” Simpson stated. “It’s a special and timely opportunity for me to step back on stage for the first time after my sporting career.” Simpson previously performed the national anthem at the 2022 AFLW grand final.

AFL CEO's Remarks

AFL CEO Andrew Dillon expressed his enthusiasm: “The AFL is proud to have a host of talented Australian artists as part of our Telstra pre-game entertainment.” He looks forward to seeing these artists perform in front of 100,000 fans in-stadium and millions watching at home.