Team 19 has a coach, so 20 is next. These are AFL’s expansion options... one backed by the PM
The AFL is considering expanding to a 20th team following the successful appointment of a coach for the new Tasmania Devils. While there is no immediate rush, league officials and government stakeholders acknowledge the financial potential of adding more games to the schedule.
Why it matters
Expansion in professional sports leagues significantly impacts commercial revenue, scheduling, and regional economic development.
AFL Team 19 has a coach, so 20 is next. These are AFL’s expansion options... one backed by the PM Devils on the hunt for big stars | 03:53 Max Laughton from Fox Sports @maxlaughton July 23rd, 2026 4:21 pm The 19th AFL club took a major step towards reality on Monday, when former Port Adelaide coach Ken Hinkley was named the Tasmania Devils’ inaugural coach.
While their new Macquarie Point stadium remains a work in progress, the Devils are on track to enter the league in 2028, at which point one team will be forced into a bye each week.
For that, and several other reasons, a 20th team shouldn’t be too far away.
New AFL Commission chair Craig Drummond said last month the league wouldn’t rush into the move, telling AFL Media: “The commission is not considering it, and it is not a conversation at the moment.
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