Key Takeaways
- The Brisbane Lions are the dual defending AFL Premiership winning team heading into the 2026 season
- The 2026 AFL season features the same 18 clubs competing in the national competition
- Early finals contenders for the 2026 AFL season are already taking shape
The 2026 AFL Season
The 2026 AFL season is shaping up to be an exciting one, with the Brisbane Lions entering as the dual defending AFL Premiership winning team. The season features the same 18 clubs competing in the national competition, spread across various states in Australia. Victoria remains the hub of the competition, with more than half of the league based in the state, while non-Victorian clubs face heavier travel loads, influencing fixture difficulty and early-season momentum.
A Look at the AFL Teams
With 18 teams competing in the current AFL Premiership competition each year, the league has come a long way since its inception in 1897 with only eight all-Victorian clubs. Now, five of Australia's six states are represented in the league, with Victoria dominating with 10 clubs. Rivalries like the Showdown, Derby, QClash, and Sydney Derby continue to anchor key rounds, adding excitement and competitiveness to the league.
Early 2026 AFL Finals Contenders
As the 2026 AFL season approaches, early finals contenders are already emerging. Clubs like the Brisbane Lions, Hawthorn, and Geelong Cats are consistently highlighted across expert preseason forecasts as the most likely to push deep into September. The Brisbane Lions, in particular, are aiming for dynasty status with their core intact and strong defensive structure.
Expert Analysis
Experts and bookies alike are projecting Hawthorn to be a major contender in the upcoming season, with their balanced list and strong development under coach Sam Mitchell. Geelong Cats also remain in the mix due to their stability and experience, keeping them firmly in the finals conversation. As the season progresses, it will be interesting to see how these early contenders perform on the field.
Overall, the 2026 AFL season is set to be a thrilling one with fierce competition, historic rivalries, and a mix of seasoned veterans and up-and-coming talent vying for the ultimate prize. Fans can expect high-stakes matches, intense showdowns, and unpredictable outcomes as the race to the Grand Final heats up. Stay tuned for what promises to be a memorable season of Australian Rules football.