Channel 7's AFL experts have unveiled their predictions for the 2026 season, with Brisbane Lions tipped to secure a historic three-peat. The panel of commentators and journalists, including Brian Taylor and Daisy Pearce, shared their forecasts for the premiership, Brownlow Medal, Coleman Medal, and more.
Brisbane received 12 votes for the premiership, followed by Gold Coast with 5, Hawthorn with 2, and Sydney and Western Bulldogs with 1 each. Nick Daicos is the overwhelming favorite for the Brownlow Medal with 8 votes, ahead of Marcus Bontempelli (5) and Errol Gulden (3).
Ben King leads the Coleman Medal predictions with 10 votes, while Sam Darcy (5) and Charlie Curnow (3) are also contenders. In the Rising Star category, Jagga Smith is the clear frontrunner with 16 votes, followed by Willem Duursma (2).
Kate McCarthy expects Harley Reid to show consistent brilliance, while Daisy Pearce predicts a sellout AFLW match between Australia and Ireland at Marvel Stadium. Matthew Richardson forecasts Zach Merrett signing a new five-year deal with Essendon.
Sydney is tipped as the team to rise (10 votes), while Collingwood is predicted to fall (8 votes). The predictions were made by a panel including Brian Taylor, Xander McGuire, and Mitch Cleary, who correctly forecasted several outcomes last year.
