Over the next three years, the Bulldogs and Mars Wrigley will offer tailored match-day experiences and community initiatives for Ballarat residents. Increased investment will also support local heroes and sporting clubs in the region through new programs, with further details to be announced in the coming weeks.

This renewal marks 10 years of collaboration between the Western Bulldogs, the City of Ballarat, and Mars Wrigley, aiming to contribute to the growth of Ballarat’s sporting and events community.

“Since 2017, Mars Stadium has become our second home for our AFL and AFLW teams, so this extended partnership with Mars Wrigley and the City of Ballarat will see us continue to strengthen our connection within the region,” said Bulldogs chief commercial and strategy officer, Kon Karavias.

“The atmosphere at all three of our Mars Stadium games last year was really special. Ballarat is now our third largest postcode of members, and we are excited to continue delivering amazing experiences for our members, fans and the wider Ballarat community across the next three years.”

“It’s an honour to sponsor such an iconic and important part of the local Ballarat community, as well as deepen our association with the Western Bulldogs,” said Xavier Shortal – sales director, Mars Wrigley Australia.

“This sponsorship signifies Mars Wrigley’s commitment to the great city of Ballarat, which has been an important part of our history for more than 40 years, producing our iconic confectionery brands including Mars, Snickers, Maltesers, M&M’s and Pods.

“We’re thrilled to be using this sponsorship to give back to the local community, including launching a number of new community initiatives that we’ll proudly be working to deliver alongside the Western Bulldogs.”

City of Ballarat Mayor, Cr Tracey Hargreaves, welcomed the partnership extension.

“Together with the Western Bulldogs, we share the excitement that Mars Wrigley has extended its agreement as naming rights partner of Mars Stadium for a further three years,” she said.

“Mars Stadium is now well and truly associated across the country with AFL football in Ballarat and this agreement will only strengthen our reputation as the sporting capital of regional Victoria.”

This year, the Bulldogs will host Port Adelaide (Round 8) and Adelaide (Round 18) at Mars Stadium, marking the 15th AFL match at the venue since the first premiership game in 2017.

The AFLW Bulldogs have also played five games at Mars Stadium over four seasons.