AFL LIVE - 2026 All-Australian team announcement: Will Gawn get a ninth jumper?
Fremantle dominated the extended All-Australian squad while Melbourne champion Max Gawn is poised to become the first nine-time selection. But Sydney only have two players in contention after banned trio Isaac Heeney, Chad Warner and Nick Blakey were ruled ineligible after the club’s hotel scandal. Follow LIVE coverage.
On the night of the AFL Awards, the 2026 All Australian team and Rising Star were announced. Adelaide captain Jordan Dawson delivered a powerful speech about mental health after being named Best Captain and Most Courageous Player. Dawson's speech touched on the struggles he faced after his brother's death earlier this year, emphasizing the importance of creating safe spaces and understanding that it's okay to feel a certain way.
Gawn, who has now earned a record ninth All Australian blazer, was named captain and vice captain, with Dawson as vice captain. Marcus Bontempelli earned his eighth selection, while Nick Daicos was selected for the fourth time in his first five seasons. The Rising Star award went to Carlton's Jagga Smith.
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