Brisbane Lions premiership defender Ryan Lester will play on in 2026 after signing a new one-year deal to remain at Brighton Homes Arena.

The 33-year-old has again been rewarded for another strong season as one of the Lions most reliable players in 2025.

Lester, selected with Pick 28 in the 2010 national draft from the Oakleigh Chargers, has played 230 games ahead of Saturday night’s Semi Final with Gold Coast.

The experienced defender said he is happy to be continuing his career with the Club for at least one more season.

“It’s great to be going around again next season and I am grateful to the Club for giving the opportunity,” Lester said.

“I love being here at the Club and really enjoy being part of the culture here.

“It’s an exciting period for the whole Club and I look forward to seeing what we can achieve both in the coming weeks and next season.”

Brisbane Lions General Manager Football, Danny Daly said it was an impressive achievement by Lester to be going around for a 16th season at the top level.

“Ryan has worked incredibly hard his whole career to get the best out of himself and continues to do so even as a 33-year-old, which is why he thoroughly deserved this deal,” Daly said.

“Ryan is a key player for us on the field and is always consistent, but he is as valuable off the field in what he does to set the standards and culture at our Club.

“We’re thrilled to have Ryan agree to play again in 2026 and look forward to having his wife Emi and their kids Georgie and Romeo part of the Lions family again.”