AFL plans five-year bans after bottle throwing incident at MCG

During the 2026 preliminary final between Hawthorn and Brisbane on Saturday night, bottles were thrown at umpires as they exited the field. The incident occurred after a controversial holding the ball decision led to a match-winning goal by Brisbane's Hugh McCluggage. The AFL responded by condemning the actions of the spectators and has announced that those identified will face bans of at least five years. The AFL, Melbourne Cricket Club, and Victoria Police are collaborating to identify the bottle throwers. Hawthorn coach Sam Mitchell acknowledged fan emotions but stressed that throwing objects is unacceptable.

• 3:47 AMAFL — AFL promises lengthy bans after bottle throwing at the MCG