Clint Stanaway has ripped into the AFL’s new wildcard round on air, calling the move “gimmicky”.

The AFL confirmed on Monday the game will introduce a Finals Wildcard Round with two extra finals to feature in the 2026 series.

This will mean 7th will play 10th and 8th will take on 9th for a place in the final eight - meaning more than half the league are capable of playing in finals.

Speaking on Melbourne's Nova 100’s Jase and Lauren, Stanaway said the new round rewards mediocrity.

“It's trash, in my opinion. It's rewarding mediocrity. And I don't know, they're doing it to make a bit more cash. You know, keep the broadcasters happy,” Stanaway said.

“I'm a traditionalist… It's ridiculous. It's gimmicky. It rewards mediocrity and like, come on! Why mess with it?”

AFL CEO Andrew Dillon h

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