The AFL set the round 26 matchups. It arranges the first top-10 wildcard postseason matches. The top six ladder positions were confirmed on Sunday, August 23, 2026. Hawthorn has one match left. It resolves if they finish third or fourth. Their standing on the live ladder relies on this match.
Games this weekend include Sydney Swans against North Melbourne, Adelaide Crows versus GWS Giants, and Melbourne taking on Western Bulldogs. The ladder updates as scores come in. The Hawks' final position ties to their ultimate performance.