After a five-hour board meeting on Wednesday at IKON Park, Michael Voss remains as the Carlton coach for at least the rest of the season.
Following the marathon meeting, it is understood that the powers at be at the Blues didn't make the call on Voss, who is now expected to coach the final three games of the 2025 campaign, albeit with significant uncertainty over next year despite holding a contract.
But the Blues, following Wednesday's board meeting, were quick to say that the former Brisbane champion will see out his deal until the end of next year.
"We were clear following Round 16 that we would utilise these remaining games to make calm, rational and fully informed decisions that will take our football club forward, and that is what we will continue to do," Carlton President Rob Priestley said.
"The first of these has been in relation to our Senior Coach, which we are now in a position to provide clarity on following last night's scheduled Board meeting.
"Last night, Graham presented a recommendation to the Board of Directors that Michael remains as our Senior Coach into next season.
"This recommendation was unanimously endorsed by the Board.
"For the last few months, Graham and Michael have been meeting regularly, during which time they have been engaged in open and honest dialogue with one another on what is required for us to evolve as a football side.
"Michael's ability to lead our football club this year in the face of incredible pressure has displayed the attributes of a strong and selfless leader.
"Carlton always comes first for our coach, and Graham and Michael share a clear and aligned view on the opportunities to improve football performance.
"We want to make it absolutely clear that Michael Voss is the coach of the Carlton Football Club and he will remain the coach of the Carlton Football Club."
Wednesday's board meeting, which was scheduled in the club's monthly calendar, comes as a surprise, yet long-time coming, sacking of Melbourne coach Simon Goodwin came to light.
The Demons have flagged their intention to enter the coaching market as soon as possible, following their decision, and are hoping to gain a head start on any potential rivals.
The bold decision by Melbourne gives them a first look at a litany of experienced options, such as Nathan Buckley, John Longmire, Adam Simpson, and James Hird, while the lesser-known names of Hayden Skipworth, Jaymie Graham, Brendon Lade, and Daniel Pratt are all valued highly.
According to Channel 7's Mitch Cleary, Voss' tenure wasn't the only item on Carlton's board meeting agenda, with the futures of football boss Brad Lloyd and a host of assistant coaches to be discussed.
"The top of the agenda is Voss' tenure, and whether he'll see out his contract for the 2026 season," Cleary said on 7News.
"Melbourne's decision to sack Simon Goodwin (Tuesday) was widely seen as a move to get into the coaching market first, and now we wait and see whether Carlton will blink on Voss.
"The board is adamant they won't make a call on Voss until season's end, but Melbourne's call on Goodwin may just prompt a quicker decision.
DEVELOPING: Michael Voss's coaching career is on the line tonight. The Blues board is locked in a marathon meeting. Chief Footy Reporter @cleary_mitch has the latest. https://t.co/5zYfOfGqUb @7AFL #7NEWS pic.twitter.com/KR6NQuFITd
— 7NEWS Melbourne (@7NewsMelbourne) August 6, 2025
"As well as Voss, head of football Brad Lloyd also faces an uncertain future, and a number of assistant coaches are also waiting to learn their fate for next year.
"New CEO Graham Wright officially takes the reins next Friday."
Despite returning to finals in the past two seasons, the Blues have slumped to 13th on the ladder, recording seven wins and 13 losses.
