AFL to replace centre bounce with throw-up in 2026 for safety and fairness, plus 23-player squads.

The AFL will eliminate the century-old centre bounce for the 2026 season, replacing it with a throw-up restart to improve umpire safety, reduce collisions, and broaden umpiring pathways. Clubs will also field 23 players with five on the interchange bench, removing the substitute rule. The changes aim to enhance consistency, efficiency, and fairness, aligning men’s play with the women’s AFLW format. A final decision on another rule change is pending.