Sandringham players line up prior to the 2025 VFL Round 5 Smithy's VFL match against the Brisbane Lions at RSEA Park. Picture: Jordan Sacchetta/AFL Photos

The AFL today informed the St Kilda Football Club it had been approved a licence to field a team in the Victorian Football League from 2026.

The licence approval follows a decision between St Kilda and Sandringham to mutually cease their 16-year VFL alignment at the conclusion of the 2025 VFL season.

Sandringham will retain its existing VFL licence, with the club to compete as a standalone team from 2026.

St Kilda and Sandringham will continue their VFLW alignment.

St Kilda Football Club CEO Carl Dilena said: “We’ve had a strong and productive working relationship with Sandringham Football Club since 2009, one that has delivered great benefits to both clubs over the years.

“Our alignment has been an important part of both clubs’ commitment to the Bayside community, which we remain incredibly proud to be part of.

“The Saints are now entering a critical phase in our men’s list build and broader club growth. It is crucial we have full control and oversight of our men’s VFL program to ensure consistent player development strategies, alignment in gameplan, and list management.

“We sincerely thank Sandringham President Nick Johnstone, CEO Mark Wheeler, his predecessor Marcus Ashcroft, and everyone who has contributed to a strong relationship over the past 16 years. We look forward to continuing our work with Sandringham through the VFLW and a range of community programs.”

Sandringham Football Club President Nick Johnstone said: “Our alignment with St Kilda over the past 16 years has been important for both clubs and we thank St Kilda President Andrew Bassat, St Kilda CEO Carl Dilena and everyone we have worked with over this time.

“We have had a strong working relationship that has brought some fantastic people through our doors, and we look forward to continuing this with our women’s program.

“We’re excited about being standalone and having full control over our football program, playing more games at Wilson Storage Trevor Barker Beach Oval, our home of football, and continuing to engage with our local Bayside community.”