The AFL has announced a major overhaul of its finals structure, set to take effect from the 2026 season. The new format will include a wildcard round, replacing the pre-finals bye that has been in place in recent years.
Under the revamped system, teams finishing seventh and tenth, as well as eighth and ninth, will face off in a wildcard round. The winners of these matches will claim the final two spots in the traditional eight-team finals series.
The wildcard round concept is common in North American sports leagues, but its introduction to Australian rules football has sparked debate among fans and commentators. The AFL's decision aims to increase the number of teams in contention for the premiership late in the season.
AFL CEO Andrew Dillon launched the finals structure changes at an event in Melbourne on September 1, 2025. The new format is expected to add excitement and unpredictability to the end of the home-and-away season.
Critics question whether the wildcard round is necessary in the AFL, given the existing competitive balance. However, the league believes it will enhance the finals series and provide more opportunities for teams to compete for the premiership.
