Sport: Australian Football Category: Scores & Results

Shai Bolton wins Norm Smith Medal in losing Grand Final

AFL • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 26, 2026, 7:35 AM

Last updated Sep 26, 2026

Shai Bolton wins Norm Smith Medal in losing Grand Final

Summary

Fremantle midfielder Shai Bolton has been awarded the Norm Smith Medal after the AFL Grand Final against Brisbane on September 26, 2026. Despite his standout performance, Bolton and the Dockers suffered a defeat, with Bolton recording 26 disposals, seven marks, and five tackles. This accolade places him among a select group of players who have won the medal while on the losing side, joining the ranks of Maurice Rioli, Gary Ablett snr, Nathan Buckley, and Chris Judd. The five judges of the medal included notable figures such as Shaun Burgoyne and Chris Judd. Further details are expected to emerge following the match.

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By the Numbers

•Bolton won the Norm Smith Medal for best on ground despite losing.
•He recorded 26 disposals, two behinds, seven marks, and five tackles.
•Brisbane completed a late comeback to win the Grand Final.
•Bolton is only the fifth player to achieve this accolade in a losing team.
•The Norm Smith Medal judges included Andrew McLeod and Michael Voss.

Latest Updates

7:50 AMAFL — 2026 Norm Smith Medal voting
7:35 AMAFL — Bolton joins rare club by winning Norm Smith in losing GF team
7:35 AMAFL — See the full votes: Bolton joins rare club by winning Norm Smith in losing GF team

What they're saying

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Shai Bolton of the Fremantle Football Club has won the 2026 Norm Smith Medal after being adjudged best on ground in the 2026 Toyota AFL Grand Final
— AFL