The famous old Dark Blues

Few AFL seasons have been as dramatic as Carlton’s 2026 campaign. After nine rounds, the Blues were in disarray. With just one win and eight losses, their season seemed over before it had even begun. Supporters were frustrated, confidence was low, and the club decided to part ways with its senior coach, Michael Voss. At the time, few would have predicted what would happen next.

Enter caretaker coach Josh Fraser. What followed was one of the most remarkable turnarounds in recent memory. Under Fraser’s leadership, Carlton rediscovered its belief, resilience and, most importantly, its winning form. The Blues won 11 of their next 13 matches, transforming themselves from a bottom-four side into a genuine finals contender.

The draw against the Western Bulldogs today secured a place in the wildcard finals round, completing a journey that seemed impossible just a few months ago. While a draw is rarely celebrated as a victory, Carlton supporters would have greeted the final siren with enormous relief and pride. Whether the finals campaign lasts one week or several, Carlton’s resurgence under Josh Fraser will be remembered as one of the AFL’s great mid-season recoveries, turning despair into hope and giving Blues fans a season they will never forget.