Carlton vs Richmond Preview & Prediction | 2026 AFL | Regular Season | Round 1

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After defeat in the opening round, Carlton host Richmond in the first match of what is a full round of AFL fixtures.

Kick-off date/time:

How to watch on TV: UK – TNT Sports / USA – Some matches are televised on Fox Sports channels

How to watch online: UK – discovery+ & Watch AFL / USA – Watch AFL

The prediction

It seemed like Carlton head coach Michael Voss was a man under pressure before a ball had even been kicked this season, and their opening-round defeat to Sydney last week has certainly not helped matters.

Having lost their opening four matches of the 2025 campaign, Voss will be keen to get in the win column quickly and will look to Sam Walsh to dictate from the off. The 25-year-old was one of the plus points last week and there is no doubt that he possesses the ability to decide matters.

This could be the ideal matchup for the hosts to respond too, as Richmond are beginning a rebuild after finishing 17th out of 18 teams last season.

It will naturally take some time for the new recruits to settle in, so we're siding with Carlton in this one.

Carlton vs Richmond tip: Carlton to win