Adelaide Crows great Rory Sloane is swapping his guernsey for the commentator’s mic, joining Nine’s AFL programming team ahead of the 2025 season. The former Crows captain, revered for his leadership both on and off the field, will bring his expertise and charisma to Nine’s flagship sports shows and platforms.
After retiring at the end of the 2024 AFL season with 255 games to his name, Sloane transitions from player to pundit, entering a diverse media role within Australia’s largest media network. His responsibilities will span The AFL Sunday Footy Show, Footy Classified, 9News Adelaide, and even radio commentary with 3AW football.
“It’s a great opportunity, and I’m incredibly excited to join the team,” Sloane said. “Growing up, my Sundays were centred around the Wide World of Sports, so to now be a part of that legacy is a dream come true. I’m keen to share my insights and bring a fresh perspective to AFL analysis.”
Sloane’s transition to media comes as no surprise to fans who’ve long admired his articulate and insightful approach to the game. During his career, Sloane was not only a two-time Adelaide Crows Best and Fairest winner and a 2016 All-Australian but also a cerebral leader known for dissecting tactics and identifying trends.
“I want to share some of the strategies I’ve used in analysing games and coaching the midfield,” Sloane said. “I hope to give viewers new angles on footy that they may not have seen before. And if I can bring the average age of The Footy Show down a little, that’s a bonus!”
A welcome addition to Nine’s AFL commentary team
Nine’s Director of Sport, Brent Williams, is confident Sloane’s on-field experience and engaging personality will enhance the network’s already strong AFL coverage.
“As a player, Rory led by example, earning respect across the AFL,” Williams said. “His courage and leadership resonated with fans, regardless of their allegiance. We’re thrilled to welcome him into the Wide World of Sports family and can’t wait to see the impact he’ll make across all our platforms.”
9News Adelaide’s director, Jeremy Pudney, echoed this sentiment, highlighting Sloane’s deep understanding of the game. “Rory was a champion for the Crows, and his insight into footy is second to none. We’re excited for him to share that expertise with our audience,” he said.