Jason Bennett will head the ABC's broadcast of VFL football after his shock departure from Channel 7.
Last month, Bennett wasn't named when Channel Seven revealed its line-up ahead of the 2026 season, with new recruit and Triple M star Jack Heverin was the major inclusion, joining the Sunday coverage.
"Ultimately, I am just a fan who found his way into the commentary box," Bennett said on social media.
"The love I've felt on social media over the past 11 years has not gone unnoticed. Thank you — it means a lot.
"Best of luck to the 7AFL team on both sides of the camera this season — and thank you for making the dreams of a starry-eyed 4-year-old footy fan come true.
"I may pop up here and there to call some footy and other sports this season, with a view to more regular calling in 2027 should an opportunity arise".
It comes as news of the VFL broadcast deal was revealed on Thursday morning, with the ABC, Kayo Sports and Channel Seven all sharing the load.
The ABC will host one match per round, as well as a game in the first three weeks of the finals, before taking over the preliminary finals and the grand final.
Former colleague Campbell Brown, who was with Bennett covering the VFL on Channel Seven for a decade, wasn't surprised by ABC's move.
"He is the consummate professional, Jase," Brown told Zero Hanger.
"And the broadcast was always in really good hands when he's doing it."
The VFL has returned to the ABC for the first time since 2014.
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