Brisbane utility Conor McKenna and ruckman Darcy Fort have signed a two-year extension to remain at the Lions.
The pair were out of contract at the end of 2026 when they claimed another premiership. Fort's third, whilst McKenna added a second medal in three years.
The Irishman found a niche role as a defensive forward inside Chris Fagan's senior line-up, playing 21 matches and kicking 25 goals.
Reports indicated McKenna could have retired from the AFL after the Grand Final against Fremantle, with a move back home to Ireland firmly on the cards.
However, he gave a strong indication he was keen to remain at Brisbane, and his new two-year deal, according to Channel Seven, has confirmed his future.
McKenna is one of many Irish success stories in the AFL, making the cross from Gaelic to Australian Rules Football.
The 30-year-old recently spoke on the reasoning behind why many of his countrymen make the switch to the other side of the world, flagging multiple factors that entice Irish athletes to head down under.
"I understand where people are coming from. They're taking the best talent away from the GAA," McKenna said on the Off the Ball podcast.
"But it's an amateur sport, and you're getting offered a professional contract at 18 years of age. When I got offered the contract, I said I'd go. If I didn't like it, I'd come home. It was that simple.
"The opportunities you give me have been unbelievable. I would advise any young fellow or girl to take the opportunity.
"The reality is most players come home after two years, and at 18 you're still, although, like, probably Kobe's (McDonald's) an exception. He has made it in the Gaelic in the senior football, but most players haven't played senior football before they go.
"It'd be harder to be a GAA player than an AFL player. That's what I struggled with as well. No time off. I still can grasp the concept: we won the biggest game, you can win on Tuesday night, and three days later, the boys were back to treatment at the club."
Fort has been a revelation for the Lions after forcing his way into the side for the 2024 decider following Oscar McInerney's shoulder injury.
The former Cat has played 47 games since, working in tandem with McInerney and Sam Draper, helping deliver a three-peat of premierships.
AFL Media hinted at Fort receiving interest from rival clubs throughout the year, but he has opted to remain put, locking up a new deal until 2028.
More to come.
