Blues make sudden call on Voss’ future as critical board meeting decides coach’s fate

Carlton has confirmed Michael Voss will continue as the club’s senior coach into 2026.

Voss has come under extreme pressure this year amid his 7-13 side’s decline to falling well short of the top eight following consecutive finals appearances.

But after a forensic review of the club’s football program from Graham Wright, the Blues incoming chief executive recommended to the board that Voss remain at the helm in 2026 as part of a marathon five-hour meeting on Wednesday night.

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Carlton in a statement on Thursday afternoon confirmed the club was committed to Voss for next season.

“We were clear following Round 16 that we would utilise these remaining games to make calm, rational and fully informed decisions that will take our football club forward and that is what we will continue to do,” Carlton president Rob Priestley said.

“The first of these has been in relation to our senior coach, which we are now in a position to provide clarity on following last night’s scheduled board meeting.

“Last night, Graham presented a recommendation to the board of directors that Michael remains as our senior coach into next season.

“This recommendation was unanimously endorsed by the board.”

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JULY 19: Michael Voss, Head Coach of the Blues and Patrick Cripps of the Blues celebrate victory during the round 19 AFL match between Carlton Blues and Melbourne Demons at Melbourne Cricket Ground on July 19, 2025 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Morgan Hancock/AFL Photos/via Getty Images) Source: Getty Images

“For the last few months Graham and Michael have been meeting regularly, during which time they have been engaged in open and honest dialogue with one another on what is required for us to evolve as a football side.

“Michael’s ability to lead our football club this year in the face of incredible pressure has displayed the attributes of a strong and selfless leader.

“Carlton always comes first for our coach, and Graham and Michael share a clear and aligned view on the opportunities to improve football performance.

“We want to make it absolutely clear that Michael Voss is the coach of the Carlton Football Club and he will remain the coach of the Carlton Football Club.”

There was added focus on Voss’ fate after Melbourne’s decision to part ways with Simon Goodwin this week made the Demons the first club in the market for a new coach.

Carlton’s held its scheduled board meeting Wednesday night, with Voss’ future at the top of the agenda as it was unanimously decided the 50-year would coach the club in 2026, which is when his contract expires.

While Voss’ position is safe, the fate of his assistant coaches are reportedly set to be decided next week. It includes pressure on Blues footy boss Brad Lloyd, who’s been in the role since 2018.

Meanwhile several key Blues stars are considering their futures at Ikon Park, with Tom De Koning expected to move to St Kilda on a lucrative deal. Jack Silvagni is weighing up rival offers including from Collingwood, while reports emerged last month Charlie Curnow was assessing his options.

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