Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
AFL news on Friday, July 17, 2026, centred on Max Holmes requiring ankle surgery after Geelong Football Club’s win over St Kilda Football Club at GMHBA Stadium. Damien Hardwick also addressed the conduct of two Gold Coast Suns players, while Nick Daicos responded to trade reports and Macquarie Point Stadium passed a major roof test.
Geelong Football Club Lose Max Holmes to Ankle Injury
Max Holmes landed awkwardly during the fourth quarter of Geelong Football Club’s 102-75 victory over St Kilda Football Club on Thursday night. Medical examinations later found a right ankle fracture and syndesmosis injury that requires surgery.
The setback follows another injury update affecting the finals race, with Will Day ruled out as Hawthorn Football Club regain three players.
“Following further medical assessment, Max Holmes will undergo surgery today to repair a right ankle fracture and syndesmosis injury,” Geelong Football Club said. “The club will provide a return to play timeframe following initial progress post-surgery.”
The official Geelong Football Club medical update confirmed that no return date would be provided until Max Holmes had started his recovery. His absence places further pressure on a side already missing Jeremy Cameron.
Jeremy Cameron suffered an ACL injury the previous week and is expected to miss between four and six weeks. Shaun Mannagh also left the St Kilda Football Club match with hamstring tightness, although the decision to keep him off was made easier once Geelong Football Club took control in the final quarter.
“Obviously it’s frustrating, but it is the game,” Chris Scott said. “If you asked me a couple of weeks ago, who do you really not want to lose? Cameron and Holmes would be up there.”
Damien Hardwick Addresses Gold Coast Suns Pair
Gold Coast Suns coach Damien Hardwick described the actions of Jamarra Ugle-Hagan and Mac Andrew as inappropriate after they were filmed leaving an accessible toilet at Suncorp Stadium. The footage was recorded following the State of Origin decider and later circulated on social media.
“We spoke to them and we understand it’s not a good look and we asked the players what their response was and we worked through that and we believe what they said,” Damien Hardwick said.
Damien Hardwick confirmed the Gold Coast Suns had handled the matter internally. Jamarra Ugle-Hagan later said the pair used the facility to avoid long queues at other toilets.
The incident arrives during an uncertain stage of Jamarra Ugle-Hagan’s playing career. The former Western Bulldogs forward is contracted only until the end of 2026 and has made three senior appearances this season.
Damien Hardwick said Jamarra Ugle-Hagan still needed time after spending 18 months away from the AFL. Ankle and calf injuries have interrupted his return, but the Gold Coast Suns remain hopeful he can rebuild his fitness.
The Gold Coast Suns will attempt to end a seven-match losing run when they face the Western Bulldogs. Both clubs remain in contention for a wildcard position.
Nick Daicos Dismisses Trade Speculation
Nick Daicos has stated that he remains committed to Collingwood Football Club despite reports of interest from the Gold Coast Suns. The 23-year-old midfielder is contracted through the end of the 2029 AFL season.
Reports claimed the Gold Coast Suns contacted manager Robbie D’Orazio to ask whether Nick Daicos might consider moving north. The Tasmanian Devils have also been linked with the three-time All-Australian before their planned AFL entry in 2028.
“None of my interests lie with the off-field stuff because I’m super happy at the club,” Nick Daicos said.
Nick Daicos also confirmed that no rival club had contacted him personally. His focus remains on producing strong performances for Collingwood Football Club.
Macquarie Point Stadium Roof Passes Test
A prototype section of the planned Macquarie Point Stadium roof reportedly completed a three-month trial over a cricket pitch. Cricketers, broadcasters and lighting specialists tested visibility, natural light and shadows.
The ethylene tetrafluoroethylene roof will use a matte finish designed to limit sunlight and shadow problems. Cricket Australia and Cricket Tasmania were involved in the testing process.
Stadiums Tasmania chief executive James Avery said the results confirmed cricket could be played without roof shadows affecting a batter’s view of the ball. Tasmanian Devils chief executive Brendon Gale also maintained that construction plans remained on schedule.
“There’s nothing from them to suggest that things aren’t on track,” Brendon Gale said.
The Hobart venue is expected to be completed late in 2030 before opening in 2031. Its delivery remains tied to the Tasmanian Devils joining the AFL.