In a stunning revelation, Carlton Football Club made an extraordinary secret play for Collingwood's premiership-winning coach Craig McRae last year, according to Channel 7 journalist Caroline Wilson. The bombshell details, disclosed on The Agenda Setters, have immediately intensified the pressure on Blues coach Michael Voss, who was already under scrutiny after a disappointing 9-14 record and missing the finals for the first time in three seasons.
Denials and Drama Surround the Approach
Wilson stressed that Carlton CEO Graham Wright, who was instrumental in appointing McRae at Collingwood, has firmly denied any approach was made. However, she asserted her conviction that the approach did occur, describing it as a serious move aimed at securing McRae with a multi-million dollar, long-term deal. At the time, McRae was nearing the end of his contract in 2026 and earning under a million dollars annually.
Friendships and Fallouts Complicate the Situation
The situation is further complicated by personal relationships. Wilson highlighted that Graham Wright's wife, Tracy Wright, and Craig McRae's wife, Gabrielle McRae, are very close friends, with the couples having a long-standing friendship. Additionally, Wright's strained relationship with Collingwood boss Craig Kelly, a former premiership teammate, adds another layer of intrigue. Kelly declined to comment when asked about Carlton's approach to their in-contract coach.
McRae's Response and Contract Extension
Despite the approach, McRae did not use it as leverage in contract negotiations. He ultimately signed a new two-year extension with Collingwood until the end of 2028 in December, which included a significant pay rise to over $1.1 million per year. Wilson revealed that McRae sought counsel from trusted friends and mentors, considering the offer but ultimately deciding against it to protect his reputation and legacy at Collingwood.
Voss's Precarious Position and Expert Opinions
Channel 7 commentator Kane Cornes described the situation as "untenable" for Carlton and Voss, comparing it to past coaching dramas at other clubs. He argued that once a club is "out" on a coach, as Carlton appears to be with Voss, it creates instability. In contrast, fellow commentator Nick Riewoldt disagreed, suggesting Voss can still turn things around and remain in charge beyond this year.
The revelation leaves Carlton in a difficult spot, with Voss's future under intense scrutiny as the AFL season progresses. The club's commitment to Voss until 2026 now seems overshadowed by this secret bid, raising questions about their long-term coaching strategy and internal dynamics.
