Will Ashcroft of the Brisbane Lions has won the Norm Smith Medal for the second consecutive year, following a standout performance in the 2025 AFL Grand Final against the Geelong Cats. This achievement makes Ashcroft the youngest player to win the award in back-to-back premierships, joining the ranks of Andrew McLeod and Dustin Martin, who also accomplished this feat in previous years.

In the grand final, Ashcroft delivered an impressive performance, recording 32 disposals, 10 clearances, nine inside 50s, three goal assists, and scoring one goal. His efforts helped the Lions secure a decisive victory, and he finished with 13 votes from the panel, outpacing his teammate and captain Harris Andrews, who received six votes.

"Can’t wait to enjoy tonight and next week — and then we get back to work and go again next year," Ashcroft said during the post-match presentation.

The voting panel, which included former players Andrew McLeod, Luke Hodge, Kate McCarthy, Jack Riewoldt, and Adam Simpson, noted the strong performances from several Lions players. Jaspa Fletcher contributed significantly with 29 disposals, including eight intercept possessions, while Andrews was pivotal in the first half, finishing with a game-high nine marks.

Hugh McCluggage also made a notable impact, scoring four goals and providing three goal assists from 26 disposals. Zac Bailey, despite a slow start, ended the match with 3.6 and added five clearances and five tackles. Dayne Zorko's strong performance off half-back earned him two votes.

The final voting breakdown was as follows: Will Ashcroft (Brisbane Lions) – 13 votes; Harris Andrews (Brisbane Lions) – 6 votes; Zac Bailey (Brisbane Lions) – 5 votes; Jaspa Fletcher (Brisbane Lions) – 3 votes; Dayne Zorko (Brisbane Lions) – 2 votes; Hugh McCluggage (Brisbane Lions) – 1 vote.

Ashcroft's victory adds to the family's legacy, as he and his brother Levi now have six premierships combined, following in the footsteps of their father, Marcus, who was part of Brisbane's three consecutive championships from 2001 to 2003.