Richmond's 2027 campaign will begin on Saturday, March 20, against arch rival Carlton.

The Tigers and Blues will continue their 130-year long feud in a Saturday afternoon time slot at the MCG, the game scheduled to begin at 12:35pm.

Dating back to 2008, the two sides have met on the Thursday night of Round 1 or 2. They also played each other in Round 1, 2007, in a Sunday twilight contest.

"We all share the disappointment that our blockbuster Round 1 game against Carlton won't be played in its traditional Thursday night time slot," Richmond CEO, Shane Dunne, said.

"Since 2008, this fixture has become one of the marquee events on the AFL calendar, attracting an average crowd of over 80,000, major television audiences and helping launch the football season with the atmosphere only a packed MCG can provide. However, the AFL has been clear that this year's change is solely due to the MCG's availability, and we understand it is a one-year arrangement. 

"While that doesn't lessen the frustration felt by our Club and supporters, we appreciate the circumstances and look forward to this iconic fixture returning to its traditional Thursday night time slot next year.

"While this is a one-year arrangement, it's hard to ignore that a 12:35pm Saturday start creates barriers for some of the game's most passionate supporters.

"Regardless of the start time, Round 1 is a special occasion and we know the Tiger Army will turn up in force and help create the atmosphere that has made Richmond v Carlton one of the biggest fixtures on the AFL calendar."

Richmond lost two nail-biters to Carlton this past season, falling by four points in Round 1 and two points in Round 17.