Lachie Neale quits Brisbane Lions co-captaincy after separation from wife Julie, feels 'deeply sorry' for letting down close ones

Brisbane Lions star Lachie Neale has stepped down from his role as co-captain following his separation from wife Julie, offering a heartfelt apology to the club, teammates, family, and supporters. The two-time Brownlow Medal winner said he was 'deeply sorry' for the impact the personal situation has had, acknowledging the responsibility that comes with holding a leadership position. The club confirmed Neale’s decision, describing it as the result of a 'challenging personal period'. Neale, who has played 294 AFL games for the Lions and Fremantle Dockers, has served as Brisbane’s co-captain for the past three seasons alongside Harris Andrews, after replacing Dayne Zorko.

Teammates were informed of the move on Friday morning as the Lions prepare for a push at a third consecutive premiership in 2026. The 32-year-old’s decision follows weeks of media attention surrounding the reported breakdown of his marriage. Neale addressed the media later on Friday.

"I understand interest in my personal life, but these are personal matters," he said.


“While I won’t go into specifics I can say that I have let my family down and I apologise for my actions which have hurt those closest to me. And for that I am deeply sorry.

“I accept the consequences of my actions, and I need to focus on rebuilding that trust with Jules as the future wellbeing of our children remains our No. 1 priority.”

When directly asked whether he had cheated on his wife, as quoted by news.com.au, Neale declined to engage with the speculation, saying, "No, I can’t address those rumours."

Neale’s contract with Brisbane runs through the end of the 2026 season, and speculation is already mounting that he could consider a return to Western Australia, reported news.com.au. Neale appeared momentarily emotional as he explained his decision to step down from the captaincy.

“I’m extremely disappointed in myself and I’ve put plans in place to do the work on myself so I can be the best version of myself moving forward.

“Given the personal matters that I am currently working through I have made the decision to stand down as co-captain and from the leadership group effective immediately," he said.

Brisbane Lions football boss Danny Daly supported Neale’s decision to step down.

"Being a captain of the Brisbane Lions comes with a high level of expectation and commitment to uphold our club values and lead by example," Daly said in a statement.

"We thank Lachie for his contribution as a leader of our club for the past three seasons during a highly successful period and look forward to Lachie remaining an important part of our club in the future."