The Australian Football League (AFL) is preparing for a subtle yet significant transformation in 2026. Under the guidance of new AFL footy boss Greg Swann, seven rule changes have been introduced. While these are more akin to corrections or stricter interpretations than entirely new rules, they promise to impact the game profoundly.
The primary aim of these changes is to reduce game duration by eliminating dead time between plays, such as the time taken for umpires to throw the ball in or players to kick the ball. Additionally, the league seeks to enhance the speed and excitement of ball movement while refining specific rule interpretations.
Stricter Stand on the Mark Adjudication
Among the changes, the stricter enforcement of the “stand on the mark” rule is perhaps the most polarizing. This adjustment builds on a 2021 rule that required players within the protected area—five meters from the mark or free kick—to stand still. The AFL’s intention is to prevent players from exploiting the rule by drifting backward, thereby aiding team defense.
However, the revised rule introduces some ambiguity. It remains unclear how it will be determined which player, or if multiple players, must stand. Furthermore, questions persist about whether players will have any leniency to position themselves properly without stopping entirely.
“As long as a player gets that split second to man the mark properly, that’s all I want to see,” Western Bulldogs legend Brad Johnson told foxfooty.com.au. “If you’re in the five-meter zone, you should have the ability to get in front of the player with the ball and stand. They shouldn’t have to automatically stop like a statue.”
Rucks Restricted in Centre Circle Contests
The art of ruckwork is set for a revival with new restrictions on ruckmen crossing the center circle line during contests. This change aims to reinvigorate the athleticism and skill associated with ruck play, which had diminished since the introduction of a center circle in 2004 to reduce run-up distances and prevent knee injuries.
Under the new rule, rucks will no longer be allowed to cross the center circle line to engage with their opponents during ball-ups. This adjustment is expected to favor athletic, high-jumping ruckmen and make the initial contest more consequential.
“What we want to see is a bit of class and creativity at center bounce, and this opens it up. This is excellent for the athletic ruckman and still perfect for the bigger ruckmen,” Johnson remarked.
Last Touch Out of Bounds
Perhaps the most talked-about change is the introduction of a free kick for the last disposal out of bounds between the 50-meter arcs. While this may seem like a significant shift, it essentially clarifies the existing rule, which was already largely enforced as “insufficient intent.”
The new rule eliminates the need for umpires to determine intent, streamlining the game and potentially increasing scoring opportunities by reducing delays.
“I’m all for keeping the game rolling. We were nearly there anyway; now it’s just brought it all to a head,” Johnson said. “It’s a good rule, it’s been effective in other competitions and is one that will keep the ball going quickly.”
Shrugging Tackles as Prior Opportunity
Finally, the AFL has decided that attempts to shrug a tackle will now count as prior opportunity, similar to fending, ducking, or evading a tackle. This change targets players who have mastered the art of drawing free kicks rather than playing the game.
Under the new rule, if a player attempts to accentuate contact and the opposition player correctly lays the tackle, it will be deemed holding the ball. This is an extension of the 2022 rule that penalized players for ducking their heads before being tackled.
“It’s pretty simple in my mind, if you shrug you’ve got to dispose of the ball correctly,” Johnson explained. “If you’re using your arm to shrug, you should be using that arm to try and release by hand.”
The AFL’s latest rule changes aim to refine the game, emphasizing skill and speed while reducing ambiguity. As these adjustments take effect in 2026, players, coaches, and fans alike will be keenly observing their impact on the beloved sport.
