The AFL set the round 26 schedule. It sets the first top-10 wildcard finals games. The top six ladder spots were confirmed on Sunday, August 23, 2026. Hawthorn has one match remaining. It resolves if they finish third or fourth. Their place on the live ladder hinges on the outcome.
Games this weekend include Sydney Swans against North Melbourne, Adelaide Crows versus GWS Giants, and Melbourne taking on Western Bulldogs. The ladder updates as scores arrive. The Hawks' final position depends on their last result.