MELBOURNE, 04 March 2026 – As the AFL prepares for the 2026 Opening Round this week, Collingwood Senior Coach Craig McRae finds himself at a critical juncture. Following a 2025 campaign that ended in “overwhelming disappointment” with a Preliminary Final loss to the Brisbane Lions, McRae has spent the pre-season recalibrating the Magpies’ tactical approach while managing significant personnel shifts within his coaching staff.
2026 Season Outlook and Tactical Shifts
Heading into the new season, McRae has indicated a “subtle shift” in Collingwood’s playing style. While the hallmark “preternatural optimism” and high-pressure game remains, the coach has spent the summer implementing tweaks designed to evolve the Pies’ transition play. This comes as external analysts place Collingwood on a “cliff edge,” with some predictions suggesting the ageing list may struggle to maintain its top-four status.
Preparation for the 2026 opener has not been without scrutiny. McRae recently drew headlines for a pre-season decision to take a brief period of leave to refresh and spend time with family—a move approved by club leadership but one that “raised eyebrows” among some commentators. Additionally, the coach has been managing the phased return of Norm Smith Medallist Bobby Hill, who has been on personal leave. McRae recently expressed confidence that Hill is progressing well, though a definitive timeline for his AFL return remains fluid.
Coaching and Playing Career Profile
Craig McRae, affectionately known as “Fly,” has established himself as one of the league’s most successful modern coaches, famously leading Collingwood to the 2023 Premiership in just his second year at the helm. In December 2025, the club reaffirmed its commitment to his vision by signing him to a contract extension that keeps him at the Holden Centre until the end of 2028.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Craig McRae |
| Date of Birth | 22 September 1973 |
| Playing Career | Brisbane Bears/Lions (1995–2004) |
| Playing Honours | 3× AFL Premiership Player (2001, 2002, 2003) |
| Coaching Debut | 2022 (Collingwood) |
| Coaching Honours | AFL Premiership Coach (2023) |
| Contract Status | Contracted until end of 2028 |
Recent Developments
The 2026 pre-season has seen a turnover in the Magpies’ support structure. Following the departure of several long-term assistants in late 2025, McRae has had to integrate new voices into the coaching box. On the field, McRae has been closely monitoring youth development, with reports suggesting that 19-year-old prospects and established stars like Lachie Schultz and Brayden Maynard are central to his Round 1 tactical plans.
Despite the “rocked” finish to the previous season—including a heavy 64-point loss to Hawthorn in late 2025 that prompted a public apology from the coach—McRae’s connection with his playing group remains a focal point. Recent “Inside Collingwood” features highlighted his unique man-management style, which includes personal touches like hand-delivering fan mail to stars such as Nick Daicos and Jamie Elliott to maintain morale.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is Craig McRae’s current contract?
Craig McRae is currently contracted as the Senior Coach of Collingwood until the end of the 2028 season, following a two-year extension signed in December 2025.
How many premierships has Craig McRae won?
McRae has won a total of four AFL premierships: three as a player with the Brisbane Lions (2001, 2002, 2003) and one as the Senior Coach of Collingwood (2023).
What is the latest update on Bobby Hill?
As of March 2026, McRae has stated that Bobby Hill is “progressing” toward a return to the senior side after taking personal leave. While there is no fixed date for his return to the AFL arena, the coach remains optimistic about his involvement in the 2026 campaign.