Jimmy Bartel Leads 3AW Wide World of Sports Coverage as AFL Season Builds Momentum

Jimmy Bartel will front 3AW's Wide World of Sports programme, bringing together two of Australian football's sharpest analytical minds in Matthew Lloyd and Sam McClure for comprehensive coverage as the AFL season gains traction.

3AW has established itself as the premier destination for AFL radio broadcasting in Australia, with a commentary team featuring some of the greatest names to have ever played the game. The station's commitment to delivering unbeatable coverage extends across its entire programming slate, with experienced hosts and expert analysts dissecting every aspect of the competition throughout the week.

Jimmy Bartel, a former Geelong Cats champion, has become one of the most recognisable voices in Australian football media. His transition from elite player to respected broadcaster has made him a fixture across multiple platforms, including his regular appearances on Footy Classified and various 3AW programming. Bartel's ability to bridge the gap between technical football analysis and accessible commentary has made him a favourite among both casual and dedicated AFL followers.

Joining him on the Wide World of Sports programme, Matthew Lloyd brings decades of punditry experience to the discussion. As a long-standing panellist on Footy Classified since 2013, Lloyd has established himself as one of the game's most incisive analysts. His deep knowledge of AFL history and tactical nuance makes him invaluable when breaking down the week's major talking points and emerging storylines.

Sam McClure completes the trio as the programme's news-breaker and journalist. Known as one of the sharpest newsbreakers in the game, McClure has become essential viewing for those seeking the latest developments, transfer news, and behind-the-scenes insights. His role as a regular panellist on Footy Classified's Monday night edition has elevated his profile considerably, and his presence on Wide World of Sports ensures listeners remain ahead of the curve on all major AFL developments.

3AW's football coverage extends far beyond any single programme. The station has invested significantly in its 2025 broadcasting slate, with experienced commentators including Tim Lane, Matt Granland, Tony Leonard, Bruce Eva, and Shane McInnes calling games across the week. Expert analysts such as Leigh Matthews, Jimmy Bartel, Matthew Richardson, and Tony Shaw provide special comments, ensuring every broadcast delivers premium analysis alongside play-by-play commentary.

The Wide World of Sports programme slots into 3AW's broader football calendar at a crucial time in the AFL season. As teams jockey for position and key storylines develop week by week, the combination of Bartel's contemporary insight, Lloyd's historical perspective, and McClure's news expertise creates a comprehensive overview of the competition's landscape. This balance of voices ensures the programme appeals to a diverse audience seeking different angles on the game they love.

Article generated: 6 March 2026, 07:00 GMT