The AFL today announced the centre bounce and sub rule will both be scrapped for the beginning of the 2026 season.

The decision to remove the centre bounce at the beginning of the match (and each quarter) was made after consultation with clubs and will create a more consistent and predictable start to each quarter.

It will also allow the umpires to focus their attention on being the best decision makers, instead of concentrating on executing the difficult skill.

AFL Executive General Manager Football Performance Greg Swann said this particular rule change will have several advantages.

“Umpire pathways are being narrowed by the requirement of the bounce. It is a difficult skill to execute, and we believe is preventing some of our best umpiring prospects from progressing any further in the AFL pathway despite having elite decision-making skills.

“By removing the skill aspect of bouncing the ball, umpires can focus their energy on adjudicating the game and consistency of decision making,” Swann said.

Swann went on to say the removal of the bounce will give umpires greater visibility at adjudicating the ruck contest.

“We also anticipate this decision will be safer for umpires and players at the contest and lessen the likelihood of umpire contact at the restart.

The removal of the sub rule will also be introduced at the beginning of the 2026 season.

Clubs will name 23 players for each match, with five named on the bench, who will all be able to come onto the field of play at any time (rotation numbers will remain the same).