The Carlton Football Club is reportedly in advanced negotiations to secure the services of former West Coast Eagles premiership coach Adam Simpson for a key role within its revamped football department for the 2026 season.
A New Role for a Premiership Winner
Adam Simpson, who masterminded West Coast's stunning 2018 flag victory, is strongly considering a part-time director of coaching position at Ikon Park. The role is designed to provide support and guidance to senior coach Michael Voss as the Blues look to rebound from a disastrous 2025 campaign.
7NEWS understands that Simpson had been approached by several Victorian clubs but has now settled on Carlton as his preferred destination for a return to club football. The 49-year-old, who was sacked by the Eagles in July 2024, has been working in the media this year after taking a 12-month break from the game. He is expected to maintain his media commitments even after taking on the part-time role with the Blues in 2026.
Major Overhaul at Carlton
This potential appointment is part of a significant restructure at Carlton following a disappointing season. The club parted ways with its head of football, Brad Lloyd, and has since appointed Port Adelaide's Chris Davies to oversee the entire football department.
Further coaching changes have seen senior assistant Ash Hansen moved to the backline to replace the outgoing Aaron Hamill. Leigh Adams has been appointed as a midfield coach alongside Tim Clarke, while Jordan Russell has shifted from leading the forward line into a development role, making way for Josh Fraser, who has moved across from Collingwood.
Questions Over Voss's Future
The arrival of a seasoned premiership coach like Simpson is set to intensify scrutiny on the future of current senior coach Michael Voss. It is understood that Voss has been given no assurances by the Blues and CEO Graham Wright beyond the start of the 2026 season, placing him under immediate pressure to deliver improved results.
Simpson, who coached West Coast for ten and a half seasons, will relocate to Melbourne ahead of next season, bringing a wealth of experience to a Carlton team desperate for success. His potential appointment signals a clear intent from the club's hierarchy to bolster its football intelligence and support structure after a turbulent period.
