The AFL CEO Gillion McLachlan has announced that he’ll be stepping down from his position at the end of the current season, after eight years.
McLachlan announced his decision during a press conference on Tuesday.
He pointed out that now felt like “the right time” to make this move, both for himself, for his family and for the game, which he said was in a much better state than what found it in when he took over back in 2014.
McLachlan stressed that his work is not done yet as he still has six months until he steps and that he and his team will set up a succession plan in the weeks ahead.
This decision comes as a surprise as the AFL executive had recently stated that he was happy in his position and was looking forward to working with the league to create a stability after the difficult period that brought about by the pandemic.
McLachlan leaves behind him a heavy legacy for those who will succeed him, as he was able to measure the storm brought about by two years of COVID, ensuring that games are played despite the restrictions in both the 2020 and 2021 seasons.
He also helped keep many clubs financially stable during that difficult period, with the AFL getting a loan out of their investment in Melbourne’s Marvel Stadium which ensured their survival.
Within the long list of McLachlan’s achievements in his eight-year tenure was also the significant improvement of the women’s game, which this August will further expand to 18 teams.
It is yet unknown who will replace the AFL’s figurehead, yet there are some who appear to fit the profile, such as Richmond’s CEO Brendon Gale and AFL executive Travis Auld.
Further announcements are expected to be made in the coming weeks.
