Tasmania Devils Updates & News
Tasmania Devils in 2026
The Tasmania Devils enter 2026 as one of the most anticipated new clubs in modern Australian sport, representing Tasmania’s long-awaited entry into elite national football. After decades of campaigning and debate, the AFL officially granted Tasmania the league’s 19th licence in 2023, paving the way for the Devils to begin building toward their AFL debut.
The club officially launched in March 2024, immediately generating extraordinary support across the country. Tasmania surpassed its initial membership targets within hours of launch and quickly broke AFL membership records, eventually growing beyond 200,000 foundation members.
While the Devils are still preparing for their AFL entry, 2026 marks a major milestone in the club’s development with the introduction of Tasmania’s inaugural VFL and VFLW teams. The move creates an elite football pathway for Tasmanian players who previously had to leave the state to pursue professional opportunities.
Led by CEO Brendon Gale and chairman Grant O’Brien, the club has focused heavily on building strong football foundations, including recruiting staff, establishing talent pathways and developing statewide community engagement.
Looking ahead, Tasmania’s challenge will be transforming overwhelming public support into long-term on-field success. The next few seasons will be crucial as the Devils continue building their list, developing facilities and preparing for AFL competition.
Tasmania Devils Right Now
Coach: Jeromey Webberley (VFL)
Captain: Robbie Fox (VFL) / Meghan Gaffney (VFLW)
Home Grounds: North Hobart Oval, UTAS Stadium and Tasmanian venues statewide
AFL Debut: Planned for 2028
Foundation Members: Over 210,000
2026 Outlook: Building elite pathways and foundations ahead of AFL entry
Featured Tasmania Devils Coverage
Here you’ll find the latest Tasmania Devils content, including:
- Club and list build updates
- VFL and VFLW match coverage
- Player signing news and pathway stories
- Stadium and infrastructure developments
- Feature articles on Tasmania’s AFL journey
- Interviews, analysis and club milestones
These articles are updated regularly throughout the season, ensuring the latest Tasmania Devils news and developments are always available in one place.
Building a Football Identity
The club’s first challenge is establishing a clear playing identity and culture. Tasmania’s VFL and VFLW programs are designed to help build continuity before the AFL side officially enters the competition.
Statewide Support
Unlike most AFL clubs, the Devils represent an entire state. The club plans to play matches across Tasmania, helping maintain strong engagement in both Hobart and Launceston while growing football participation statewide.
Infrastructure and Stadium Development
The proposed Macquarie Point Stadium remains one of the biggest talking points surrounding the club’s AFL entry. The roofed stadium project was approved by Tasmanian Parliament and is viewed as a key part of Tasmania’s long-term AFL future.
Tasmania Devils History
The Tasmania Devils were officially established after the AFL awarded Tasmania its long-awaited licence in May 2023. The club’s launch in 2024 represented the culmination of more than a century of Tasmanian football history and decades of campaigning for a standalone AFL side.
Tasmania has produced generations of elite footballers and maintained one of Australia’s strongest football cultures despite never previously having a permanent AFL club. The Devils now aim to become the centrepiece of football development across the state.
The club’s colours and identity draw heavily on Tasmania’s sporting history, including the return of the famous Devils nickname. Tasmania’s VFL and VFLW teams officially begin competition in 2026 as part of the club’s pathway toward AFL and AFLW participation.
Beyond football, the Devils have quickly become one of the strongest-supported sporting organisations in Australia, reflecting the emotional connection many Tasmanians feel toward finally having a team to call their own.
