The best AFL job in decades just opened up. There may only be two real candidates — Lions coach contenders
Following the resignation of triple-premiership coach Chris Fagan, the Brisbane Lions are searching for a successor to lead the team in 2027. The club is considering both internal candidates and external options to maintain their current position of strength in the AFL.
Why it matters
The departure of a highly successful coach from a championship-winning team is a major event in Australian sports, triggering significant speculation about the future of the club.
AFL TEAMS BRISBANE-LIONS The best AFL job in decades just opened up. There may only be two real candidates — Lions coach contenders Fagan reflects after AFL coaching exit | 03:13 Tim Miller from Fox Sports October 1st, 2026 11:54 pm The throne is bare.
One day out from ten years since being appointed head coach of a then-dysfunctional and dispirited Brisbane, Chris Fagan departs as a triple-premiership Lions immortal.
The 65-year old’s resignation , coming less than a week after orchestrating an extraordinary Grand Final comeback win over Fremantle for their third successive flag, had been widely speculated in the days leading into the decider.
In its aftermath, Fagan told AFL 360 on Monday he would “have a good think” about whether he had the energy to coach for an 11th season in 2027.
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