‘Intriguing Development’: Fremantle Announces Modifications to Coach Justin Longmuir’s Contract

Fremantle has announced a shift in the contractual arrangement of coach Justin Longmuir, who will transition to an employment agreement extending through 2026 and beyond.

Initially reported by 9News journalist Tom Morris, this updated deal will see Longmuir exit a fixed-term contract and become a standard employee of the club.

The previous coaches who had a similar type of agreement were David Noble at North Melbourne and Brendon Bolton at Carlton.

Both were shown the door shortly after their contract changes.

In a statement issued on Tuesday afternoon, the Dockers elaborated on Longmuir’s newly defined position and the rationale behind the shift in direction.

“We are deeply committed to the vision we’re creating here at Fremantle and have significant expectations regarding our potential achievements,” said chief executive Simon Garlick.

“After numerous conversations with Justin, it became clear that our ambitions and standards are driven by the expectations we set for ourselves, rather than the length of a contract.”

“Justin has been developing and overseeing an elite coaching structure, and we believe this new agreement aligns perfectly with our intention for him to guide us through a period of sustained competitiveness and success.”

“There’s always pressure for the club to perform, and we will maintain accountability in leadership through regular performance assessments and reviews.”

Longmuir took the reins at Fremantle for the 2020 season and has guided the team to the finals on one occasion.

The 44-year-old coach expressed his eagerness to keep progressing toward success as the Dockers pursue their inaugural AFL premiership.

“It’s an honour to lead this talented group,” Longmuir stated.

“The external expectations for us to perform and achieve success in the coming years are high, as they should be, and the nature of my contract doesn’t alter that.”

“I believe the adjustment is a more accurate reflection of the necessary protections and security for coaches, allowing us to focus on our work without distractions.”

“I remain as motivated as ever to see this group thrive, and as a club, we are fully committed to upholding the standards needed to deliver the era of competitiveness and success that the Freo family deserves.”