Lachie Neale Departs Brisbane Lions for Collingwood After Grand Final Victory
Dual Brownlow medallist Lachie Neale has confirmed his move to Collingwood on a reported three-year deal, concluding his decorated eight-season tenure with the Brisbane Lions just days after their historic premiership win.
Lachie Neale is leaving the Brisbane Lions to join Collingwood, days after helping the team secure a third consecutive premiership. The dual Brownlow medallist has informed Brisbane of his decision to exercise his rights as an unrestricted free agent, ending his eight-season stint with the club.
Collingwood has confirmed Neale's intention to join them, with reports indicating a three-year contract worth approximately $3 million. The move means Brisbane's seven-point grand final victory over Fremantle was Neale's final game for the Lions. During his time in Brisbane, Neale achieved three premierships, two Brownlow Medals, four club best-and-fairest awards, and four All-Australian selections in 186 games.
The 33-year-old's transition to Collingwood is expected to be formalized when the free agency period opens on Friday. Neale reportedly informed Brisbane of his decision on Tuesday, though the move had been in consideration for at least a month. Brisbane's list manager, Dom Ambrogio, acknowledged Neale's significant contributions and stated the club understands his reasons for exploring free agency, wishing him well for his future endeavors. The Lions will receive compensation determined by the AFL during the exchange period.
Financial considerations were reportedly not the sole driver for Neale's decision. He was understood to prefer a continued role in the midfield, while Brisbane's developing talent might have shifted his role in the future. Collingwood's offer reportedly included the potential to extend his career, drawing a parallel to Magpies veteran Scott Pendlebury. While West Coast also made an offer, it was reportedly less than Collingwood's package. Neale had also explored interest from Adelaide and met with St Kilda coach Ross Lyon, with a brief consideration of a return to Fremantle.
This move follows a season marked by personal challenges for Neale, including the public announcement of his marriage breakdown in January, after which he stood down as Lions co-captain. Additionally, a one-match suspension for striking Hawthorn's Jack Ginnivan the week before the grand final threatened to sideline him, though the ban was ultimately reduced to a $10,000 fine on appeal.
Neale expressed his deep appreciation for his time with the Brisbane Lions, describing his eight seasons as "the best eight years of my life" and indicating that the recent premiership win was particularly emotional due to speculation about his future. He praised the club's organization and the players, expressing that he would miss the group. Despite his departure, Neale expressed confidence in Brisbane's continued competitiveness.