AFL to Implement Contact Training Limits Starting 2027 Pre-Season

The AFL has revealed that it will introduce limits on contact training for both AFL and AFLW teams beginning with the 2027 pre-season. This decision is part of an effort to address concerns regarding player safety, particularly related to head impacts and concussions.

The league stated that these changes are intended to minimize avoidable head injuries while still allowing players to prepare physically for the season. This initiative follows recommendations from a Victorian Coroner's investigation into the death of former player Shane Tuck.

In addition to the pre-season limits, the AFL is working on establishing parameters for in-season training, which will be informed by data from the 2026 season. Clubs will also be required to avoid high-intensity contact training on consecutive days and implement a graded return for players after any breaks in contact exposure. Monitoring of contact training will be mandatory, including the documentation of any concussions that occur during practice.