AFL 2026 Shock: Non-Victorian Clubs Set to Dominate the Ladder
Expectations are shifting dramatically as AFL experts unveil their predictions for the 2026 season. For the first time in two decades, the top four spots are tipped to be dominated entirely by non-Victorian clubs, signaling a potential seismic shift in Australian football’s traditional power balance. Brisbane leads the pack, with Fremantle, Sydney and Gold Coast rounding out what could be a Queensland and Western Australia-heavy top tier.
This predicted top four doesn’t just challenge history—it rewrites it. Victorian stalwarts Collingwood and Carlton are forecast to miss the finals, while West Coast is expected to languish at the bottom. Adelaide and Greater Western Sydney are slated for wildcard positions, alongside St Kilda and Hawthorn, with Geelong and Western Bulldogs projected to hover around the top six.
Brisbane is tipped for a third consecutive premiership, hinting at a dynasty reminiscent of the legendary teams coached by Leigh Matthews decades ago. The Lions’ mix of talent and depth makes them the clear favorite, but experts warn Sydney and Gold Coast are ready to push hard, setting up what could be one of the most competitive seasons in years.
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The AFL’s new Final 10 system will also add complexity. With more teams competing for finals berths, every game carries weight, but critics argue it may dilute the significance of finishing at the top. The system’s success could hinge on how clubs adapt to the increased pressure and fewer guaranteed advantages for top-performing teams.
Off-field stories will likely dominate as well. Coaching changes are expected, with four departures predicted, two voluntary and two forced, while trade and contract drama—like the ongoing speculation around Zach Merrett—will keep fans glued to the headlines. Injuries and player management will be critical, particularly for teams like GWS, who are predicted to struggle under the weight of past injury woes.
For global audiences, this is more than an Australian story. It’s a glimpse at how sports traditions evolve, how new talent rises and how competitive balance can shift dramatically in just one season. The 2026 AFL campaign promises tension, strategy and excitement at every turn.
Stay with us as we track every match, every upset and every breakout star. Keep watching, because this season could redefine what it means to compete at the top of the AFL.
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