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Club Statement — Lachie Neale Steps Down as Brisbane Lions Co-Captain
The Brisbane Lions have today announced that Lachie Neale, the club’s co-captain and one of the most decorated players in the team’s modern history, has voluntarily stepped down from his leadership role, effective immediately.
Neale, 32, informed club officials and his teammates on Friday morning that he would be vacating the co-captaincy position ahead of the 2026 AFL season. The decision follows a period of deeply personal challenges for Neale, which the club acknowledges have extended beyond the football field.
Brisbane’s leadership group will now enter review discussions to determine the approach for 2026. As part of that process, the club has indicated that Harris Andrews, Neale’s long-time co-captain, may serve as sole captain, or the club may elect a new co-captain pairing. Vice-captains Josh Dunkley and Hugh McCluggage are among the senior figures expected to be considered for increased leadership responsibility
Official Club Statement
In an official club statement, the Brisbane Lions said:
“Lachie Neale has determined that stepping down as co-captain is the best move for him and for the club following a challenging personal period. Lachie has served our club with extraordinary leadership and professionalism and we thank him for his contribution to our leadership group over the past three seasons.”
The statement from the club also emphasised its support for Neale as both a footballer and a person, acknowledging that the responsibilities of captaincy carry significant expectation both on and off the field. “Our priority as a football club is to always support our people and their families. We ask that the privacy of Lachie, his family and those close to him be respected at this time.”
Neale’s Personal Address
Neale addressed the media at a press conference held at the Lions’ Springfield headquarters, where he spoke openly about the reasons behind his decision:
“I can say that I have let my family down, and I apologise for my actions, which have hurt those closest to me, and for that I am deeply sorry. I accept this is a consequence of my actions and I need to focus on rebuilding that trust. The future wellbeing of our children remains the number one priority.”
In his address, Neale confirmed that he and his wife, Jules, have separated. He made clear that he would not be going into detail on the circumstances of the breakdown of his marriage, but reiterated that his decision to resign from leadership came after careful reflection and discussion with club officials.
Neale also stated that:
“It was always important to me to focus on being the best version of myself — not just as a footballer, but as a partner and father. I have plans in place to do the work needed to get there.”
He acknowledged that his personal matters had understandably drawn public interest, but reiterated a heartfelt request for privacy for his family and children as they navigate this difficult period.
Reflection on His Career and Contribution
Lachie Neale’s career with the Brisbane Lions has been defined by elite performance, consistency and leadership. Originally drafted by Fremantle, Neale made the move to Brisbane in 2019 and has since become one of the AFL’s premier midfield talents. During his time with the Lions:
- He won two Brownlow Medals (2020, 2023), awarded to the AFL’s best and fairest player.
- He was a central figure in Brisbane’s back-to-back premiership victories in 2024 and 2025.
- He served as co-captain alongside Harris Andrews for three seasons.
- He won four Merrett-Murray Medals as the club’s best and fairest.
- He earned four All-Australian selections.
Neale has played 294 AFL games, becoming one of the most respected and accomplished Lions players of his generation.
Despite a calf injury suffered late in the 2025 finals series, Neale made a remarkable recovery to contribute significantly as a substitute in the Lions’ grand final win over Geelong — a testament to his resilience and competitive character.
Future with the Club
The question of Neale’s long-term future at the Brisbane Lions remains open. His current contract runs through the end of 2026, but Neale said he has not made any definitive decisions about what comes after. With his family relocating to Western Australia amid personal circumstances, speculation has emerged about the possibility of a change in environment once his contract expires.
Neale emphasised his continued commitment to Brisbane’s 2026 season, stating that his focus remains on training, supporting his teammates and contributing on the field.
Club and Football Community Response
Reactions from the club and the wider AFL community have highlighted a balance between respect for Neale’s service and empathy for his personal situation. Brisbane’s football management has thanked Neale for his leadership, while also stressing the importance of supporting players beyond just their on-field roles.
As preparations begin for the 2026 campaign, the Lions will need to settle their leadership structure and navigate the loss of one of their most influential leaders. But Neale’s legacy — as a champion player and respected teammate — remains firmly established.
Your Questions Answered:
Lachie Neale?
A star AFL midfielder for the Brisbane Lions and former co-captain.
Latest news?
He stepped down as co-captain amid a public and personal separation from his wife.
What happened?
Neale confirmed his marriage has ended, took responsibility for hurting his family, apologised publicly, and stepped down from leadership.
What did he do?
He hasn’t publicly detailed specific actions; he apologised and said he let his family down. Rumours exist, but there is no official criminal finding.
Who is his wife?
Jules Neale — they share two children and have now separated, with her returning to Western Australia.
Is he still a Brisbane Lion?
Yes — he’s still a player under contract for 2026, just no longer co-captain.
Lachie Neale’s decision to step down as co-captain of the Brisbane Lions marks a significant moment for the club and the player himself. While his focus now turns to personal priorities and rebuilding his family relationships, his impact on the Lions’ success and culture will endure. The club and its supporters will watch with interest and support as he continues his football career into 2026, and beyond.