Chris Fagan discusses Alastair Clarkson departure from North Melbourne
AFL • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 3, 2026, 1:41 AM
Last updated Sep 3, 2026

Brisbane coach Chris Fagan expressed concern following the departure of Alastair Clarkson from North Melbourne on Wednesday. Clarkson was removed from his position with one year remaining on his contract after four years with the club. North Melbourne president Sonja Hood stated the decision was made because Clarkson no longer held the confidence of internal stakeholders, noting a need for a coach focused on the modern game. Fagan, who maintains a long-standing personal and professional relationship with Clarkson, stated he was surprised by the development given his perception of the team's progress. Fagan emphasized the difficulty of the coaching profession and expressed hope that Clarkson remains involved in the sport. The Brisbane coach also noted that he had been unable to reach Clarkson personally since the news of the dismissal broke.
- •Alastair Clarkson was removed as North Melbourne head coach on Wednesday.
- •The club terminated the contract with one year remaining.
- •Sonja Hood stated the club required a coach who could teach the modern game.
- •Chris Fagan questioned the timing and communication surrounding the decision.
- •Fagan stated he remains in support of his long-time colleague.
- 1:41 AMAFL — 'That can't be right': Shocked Fagan hopes Clarkson isn't lost to footy
"Lions coach and Clarkson's long-time friend and colleague reacts to the former North Melbourne coach's sacking
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