The Brisbane Lions claimed their third consecutive AFL premiership on September 26, 2026, defeating the Fremantle Dockers at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
The Lions trailed by 17 points with just over four minutes remaining before mounting a dramatic late comeback.
Fremantle's Patrick Voss kicked his third goal to extend the lead, and shortly after, venue operators played the club's traditional song 'Wharfie Time' over the stadium speakers.
The momentum shifted immediately after the tune concluded. Brisbane responded with consecutive goals from Charlie Cameron and Zac Bailey, cutting the deficit to five points.
Then 21-year-old forward Logan Morris scored two late goals to seal the victory for Brisbane.
Commentators Criticize Timing of 'Wharfie Time'
Former Melbourne player Garry Lyon provided immediate commentary as the comeback unfolded during the television broadcast.
"All of a sudden the Fremantle footy club supporters are sitting there thinking 'we're about to experience the greatest thing on our life' — and now they're back!"
said Garry Lyon, Australian rules commentator.
Media commentators at the stadium questioned the timing of the stadium audio playback during such a critical moment of the match.
"I just reckon it's the wrong time to play Wharfie Time when you're in front! It's like you're celebrating too early or prematurely.
You know Brisbane are going to come at you," said Jason Dunstall, Australian Rules Hall of Fame Legend.
Dunstall added further criticism regarding the decision as the match progressed.
"They're a freakish team the Brisbane Lions. They always find a way.
It's the worst Wharfie Time call of all-time," said Jason Dunstall, Australian Rules Hall of Fame Legend.
Lyon highlighted how the stadium environment appeared to impact the players on the field during the closing minutes.
"Fremantle thought they were home in the crowd, the playing group on the field — I'm not sure they got that far ahead of themselves, but you can't help but be influenced," said Garry Lyon, Australian rules commentator.
Broadcaster Anthony Hudson summarized the dramatic conclusion to the match following the final siren.
"Extraordinary torture for one team ... but after an incredible Grand Final, once again Brisbane goes back-to-back-to-back.
A new pride, but the same extraordinary feat. It's Fagan Folklore!"
said Anthony Hudson, Fox Footy commentator.
Fremantle had previously utilized the 'Wharfie Time' anthem only twice throughout the 2026 season, including during the final 90 seconds of their semi-final victory over Geelong at Optus Stadium.
League regulations permitted the team to play the song only once during the Grand Final match.
Brisbane players noted following the match that the early celebration served as motivation for their late surge.
"We spoke about it a few times in the week … it was fuel for us to put the foot down and go," said Lachie Neale, Brisbane Lions player.
Teammates confirmed they actively used the moment to rally their group before the central restart.
"We wanted to use it against them," said Dayne Zorko, former Brisbane Lions captain.
Co-captain Josh Dunkley was seen waving his arms in the air prior to the centre ball-up to signal the team's final push.
The victory marks Brisbane's third straight premiership title.
