Michael Voss 'unanimously endorsed' by Blues board to coach into 2026 AFL season

Carlton coach Michael Voss has been backed to coach into 2026 by incoming Blues chief executive Graham Wright.

After a lengthy board meeting at Princes Park on Wednesday, where Voss's position was on the agenda, the Blues have publicly backed him to continue as coach.

Wright, who will officially take over from Brian Cook next week, presented to the board at the meeting.

"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 in a statement.

"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 (Wright) presented a recommendation to the board of directors that Michael remains as our senior coach into next season.

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"This recommendation was unanimously endorsed by the board.

"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."

Voss has been under immense pressure following a horror season that will see the Blues miss the finals for the first time since 2022.

The Blues have crumbled this year and they sit 13th on the ladder with a 7-13 win-loss record.

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

"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."

Carlton hosts finals-bound Gold Coast at Docklands Saturday night, with Voss to give his weekly media conference on Friday.

AAP

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