Collingwood's Nick Daicos Favored for Brownlow Medal Amidst AFL Awards Gala

The 2026 Brownlow Medal awards ceremony is underway at the Crown Palladium in Melbourne, celebrating the Australian Football League's (AFL) most outstanding player.

Collingwood's Nick Daicos is the strong favorite to win the prestigious award, with odds as low as $1.01 according to Sportsbet. Other notable contenders vying for the medal include Geelong's Bailey Smith, Western Bulldogs captain Marcus Bontempelli, and Brisbane Lions player Will Ashcroft.

Meanwhile, Sydney Swans star Isaac Heeney, currently suspended, is also expected to poll well despite his absence from the ceremony. He and several teammates were stood down by the club due to the "Pullman East Melbourne scandal" and were not invited.

The evening commenced with red carpet arrivals, featuring AFL players and their partners, alongside media personalities such as Seven AFL presenter Abby Holmes, who is attending while pregnant. Early arrivals included Lexi Mary, wife of Western Bulldogs player Rory Lobb, and Marcus Bontempelli with his wife Neila.

Former Essendon legend James Hird also made an appearance with his new partner, Natalie Young, marking his first Brownlow Medal ceremony in 14 years.

The ceremony's proceedings include live voting updates, with the event taking place in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide, and Perth.

Reports suggest that Bailey Smith might be a no-show, potentially due to recovery from shoulder surgery, a stark contrast to his memorable fashion statement at the previous year's event where he wore 'speed dealer' style sunglasses.