Lachie Neale steps down as Brisbane Lions co-captain

Lachie Neale has stepped down as co-captain of the Brisbane Lions following what the club described as a "challenging personal period".

The dual premiership winner informed teammates of his decision on Friday morning as Brisbane prepares its bid for a third consecutive AFL title in 2026.

In a club statement, the Lions said the two-time Brownlow Medallist had "determined this was the best move for him and the club" after recent personal challenges. Neale is expected to address the media later on Friday.

The 32-year-old has spent recent weeks in the headlines amid reports of a marriage separation from his wife, Jules.

Neale has served as Brisbane's co-captain for the past three seasons alongside Harris Andrews, after the pair took over the leadership role from Dayne Zorko.

Across a decorated career spanning 293 games with Brisbane and the Fremantle Dockers, Neale has been one of the competition's most influential midfielders.

He played a pivotal role in the Lions' premiership success last season, producing a remarkable return from a calf injury during the Grand Final against the Geelong Cats. Initially ruled out for the remainder of the season after suffering the injury in a qualifying final loss, Neale recovered in time to be named as the substitute and made an immediate impact.

Despite playing only half the match, he collected 17 disposals, seven clearances and kicked a crucial goal just before three-quarter time.

Neale joined Brisbane as a marquee recruit in 2019 following seven seasons in Western Australia. He is out of contract at the end of the 2026 season and is set to become a free agent.