North Melbourne faces $1 million payout if coach Alastair Clarkson sacked

North Melbourne Football Club would have to pay close to $1 million if it terminates senior coach Alastair Clarkson before the end of his five‑year contract, which runs through the 2027 season. Clarkson’s deal, signed in 2022 for more than $5 million, guarantees the full amount of the 2027 salary even if he is dismissed a year early.

Club president Sonja Hood confirmed the contract’s terms and noted that Clarkson’s agreement includes performance‑related KPIs, but those metrics would not reduce the payout. The club, known for its frugal financial management and recent variable AFL funding, has not indicated any intention to review the coach’s position before the season’s end.