Brisbane extends coach Chris Fagan’s contract despite racism investigation
In a big day for the Brisbane Lions, the coach was given a contract extension as he remains embroiled in a racism investigation.
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Chris Fagan has been given a two-year contract extension as Brisbane Lions coach in a show of faith as he awaits the outcome of an investigation into historical racism claims.
Fagan, who turns 62 this year, will extend his time in charge of the Lions to at least eight years with his deal at the club extended until the end of the 2027 season.
Brisbane chairman Andrew Wellington said Fagan had been key to the Lions’ “resurgence”, the club having made two preliminary finals in the past three years.
“Chris has played a key role in the resurgence of our club in recent seasons, including creating an environment that has enabled us to attract and retain great talent,” he said.
“It’s exciting that Chris has the opportunity to continue to take us forward and achieve the success we believe this playing and coaching group is capable of.”
The contract extension comes as Fagan remains embroiled in an investigation after racism allegations during his time at Hawthorn were revealed last year.
Fagan and former Hawthorn coach Alastair Clarkson, now in charge of North Melbourne, both stood down from their positions when the allegations were first raised.
Both have vehemently protested their innocence and returned to work and will steer their teams into the opening round of the season.
Clarkson this week confirmed that five months after the investigation began, he was yet to formally talk to investigators or make a submission to the inquiry.
“We’re yet to present to the panel, but I’m sure that will happen in due course,” Clarkson told Channel 7.
“It’s tough when you have to confront these types of allegations, but until we actually get through the investigation, get an opportunity to present our case to the panel, we’ve just got to compartmentalise it really.”
Clarkson suggested Fagan was also yet to present to the panel.
Fagan has won 73 of his 136 games in charge of the Lions.
Originally published as Brisbane extends coach Chris Fagan’s contract despite racism investigation
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