Chris Fagan, the head coach of the Brisbane Lions, has been honored with the Keys to the City following the team’s remarkable achievement of winning three consecutive AFL premierships.
The Lions previously received this honor after clinching their inaugural premiership in 2001.
According to the Brisbane City Council, the Keys to the City is a ceremonial recognition that celebrates significant accomplishments or contributions made by individuals or organizations.
Fagan was awarded the keys after guiding the Lions to their historic third straight premiership. In a thrilling grand final on Saturday, the team overcame a 17-point deficit in the last four minutes, ultimately defeating the Fremantle Dockers with a score of 14.12 (96) to 12.17 (89).
This victory marks the Lions’ third consecutive championship, following their wins against Sydney in 2024 and Geelong in 2025.
This achievement represents the club’s second instance of winning three premierships in a row, previously accomplished from 2001 to 2003 under the leadership of coach Leigh Matthews.
During a fan event for the Brisbane Lions, Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner mentioned that the team had initially received the keys in 2001, and he presented them to Fagan during the ceremony.
The Brisbane City Council describes the Keys to the City as a symbolic gesture acknowledging “an individual’s or organization’s outstanding achievement or contribution to our city.” It can also be awarded to local residents for notable accomplishments in sports, community service, or humanitarian efforts.
Upon receiving the keys, Fagan humorously inquired about their significance, asking, “The keys to the city, I don’t know what that means — can I do anything?”
Former Brisbane Lord Mayor Graham Quirk had previously addressed this question in 2019, stating that while it is the highest honor a city can bestow, it does not provide any practical benefits, such as physically opening doors.
This presentation occurs amidst ongoing discussions regarding Fagan’s coaching future, as he has yet to announce whether he will continue with the team for another season, despite being under contract until the end of 2027.
In an interview with ABC News Breakfast on Monday, Fagan acknowledged that he has “a few things to work out,” reflecting on whether he still possesses the necessary energy for the demanding role, as it requires a significant commitment.
“I’ve been doing it for 10 years now, and I just want to ensure that if I continue, I can provide the players with the energy they need,” he stated, emphasizing the relentless responsibilities and pressures associated with the position.
