Essendon will jet interstate to face the Gold Coast SUNS to kick off their 2025 AFL season.

The clash will take place at People First Stadium from 4:15pm local time on Saturday, March 8 next year, part of the AFL's Opening Round which was first introduced in 2024.

Close finishes have shaped recent meetings between the two clubs - after heading into last season undefeated from their previous eight games against the SUNS, the Bombers will now be looking to rectify their two tight losses from the corresponding fixtures in 2024.

The announcement of the Opening Round fixture follows Monday's Gather Round release, which confirmed the Bombers would be taking on Melbourne at Adelaide Oval for a second time in three years.

Dons to take on Dees in Gather Round

Ticketing information for Essendon's season-opener with Gold Coast will coincide with the full release of the 2025 AFL fixture.

Essendon 2025 AFL Opening Round fixture

Gold Coast SUNS v Essendon
Saturday, March 8, 2025, 4:15pm local time
People First Stadium, Gold Coast