AFL commentator Luke Darcy confirms departure from Seven and Triple M

AFL commentator and Western Bulldogs champion Luke Darcy has confirmed his departure from Seven and Triple M.

After Saturday’s grand final, Darcy, 49, will step away from TV and radio commentary, and will instead concentrate on his Empowering Leaders podcast and other career ambitions, that include the Aleda Leadership business.

Tune in to Seven and 7plus on Saturday to watch the AFL grand final live and free.

While it has been speculated that Darcy’s decision is linked to Seven’s recent signings for its AFL coverage next year (notably Kane Cornes), it is believed he decided to make the move some months ago as he juggled competing priorities.

“I feel incredibly fortunate to have worked with some of the best people you could ever meet on and off air over the last 17 years at Seven and Triple M,” Darcy said.

“I’ve formed many lifelong friendships, during what has been a genuinely fun and enjoyable time.

“Sitting in the best seat in the house calling AFL football is a privilege that was never lost on me.

“It will be hard to replicate the fun of broadcasting the footy, however, I am looking forward to devoting more time to our expanding Aleda Leadership business and am excited about the future of the Empowering Leaders podcast.

“I’m looking forward to being on air for both Seven and Triple M this Saturday for the grand final, before I switch to enjoying at home and in the stands next year as a footy fan.”

Darcy’s son Sam is just three years into his AFL career is already an emerging superstar at the Western Bulldogs.

Luke played over 200 games for the Bulldogs and Sam looks well on the way to emulating his father’s deeds, if not surpassing them.

Seven sport director Chris Jones said what Darcy gave “behind the scenes” would be really missed.

“Since 2012 when he arrived at Seven, Darce has been the voice of some of the most unforgettable moments in Australian Rules Football,” Jones said.

“I had the pleasure of working closely with him on Saturday Night Footy and while his passion and knowledge of the game is clear, his loyalty and leadership behind the scenes has been just as great.

“We’re all grateful for the legacy he leaves behind and look forward to working with him and the 7plus team on future Aleda collaborations.”

Cornes, a Port Adelaide champion and high-profile commentator, is joining the Seven AFL team as the network beefs up its AFL coverage for 2025.

He and Darcy had a tense exchange on Triple M earlier this year, which is undoubtedly the reason behind some of the recent speculation about Darcy’s decision.

Tune in to Seven and 7plus on Saturday to watch the AFL grand final live and free.