Brisbane Lions Announce Trio of Co-Captains for 2026 AFL Season
The Brisbane Lions have officially revealed their leadership structure for the 2026 AFL season, confirming that Harris Andrews will be joined by Josh Dunkley and Hugh McCluggage to serve as co-captains. This decision comes after Brownlow medallist Lachie Neale stepped down from his captaincy duties, following his relationship scandal and marriage breakdown, effectively ending the Neale-Andrews era at the club.
Shift in Leadership Strategy
In a notable move, the Lions have expanded their captaincy to include three players, despite veteran coach Chris Fagan previously expressing reservations about the dual-captaincy model. This change highlights the club's depth of leadership talent, particularly as they enter the season as reigning premiers and strong favourites to secure a third consecutive premiership and appear in their fourth straight grand final.
Harris Andrews, aged 29, is widely regarded as one of the best defenders in the AFL and commands immense respect across the league. Hugh McCluggage, 27, an All-Australian midfielder, and Josh Dunkley, 29, a three-time premiership player, are both highly decorated and admired figures within the sport. Both McCluggage and Dunkley served as joint vice-captains last season, making their promotion to co-captain a natural progression in their careers.
The Lions' decision underscores their confidence in these players to lead the team forward, as they aim to build on their recent successes and maintain their competitive edge in the AFL.
