Fagan lashes Kangaroos over 'unfair' comments after Clarkson axing

Brisbane coach Chris Fagan has criticized North Melbourne's remarks about coach Alastair Clarkson's dismissal, calling them "unfair." Clarkson's strategy was harshly criticized by North president Sonja Hood and football boss Todd Viney after his termination with a year remaining on his contract. The Kangaroos are anticipated to begin scouting for their next head coach next week.

Fagan, who previously worked with Clarkson at Melbourne in the late 90s and later with him at Hawthorn, expressed his shock at the sudden dismissal, stating that he hopes Clarkson had an opportunity to respond to the feedback before it was withdrawn. Clarkson, who led Hawthorn to four premierships from 2005 to 2021, joined North Melbourne as their head coach in August 2022.

He was abruptly sacked by Viney and Hood with a year left on his contract, despite North's improved performance in 2026, when they finished 14th and secured nine wins. Hood stated that the club needed a coach capable of adapting to the modern game, while Viney cited "gaping holes" in the team's game plan and Clarkson's inability to address them.

Fagan, who hopes his friend is not lost to the sport, remarked on the challenging nature of coaching and the swift nature of Clarkson's departure.