Richmond can confirm defender Josh Gibcus will miss the remainder of the 2026 AFL season after suffering an ACL sprain to his left knee. 

Gibcus suffered the injury in the VFL’s Round 5 game against Casey last weekend. 

After extensive consultation with external sports physicians and surgeons, Gibcus will spend the next six weeks in a brace before undergoing surgery to stabilise his lateral knee in eight weeks' time. Gibcus will not have a full ACL reconstruction. 

The total rehab plan is set to last six months, with the aim to have Gibcus fit for the beginning of the pre-season. 

Richmond Executive General Manager - Football Performance, Tim Livingstone, said the Club is throwing its full support behind Gibcus.

“We are so disappointed that Josh has suffered this latest setback after working so hard to get back on the field,” Livingstone said.

“Josh has tremendous drive, determination, and resilience. We know he will attack his rehab diligently and give it his all, and we are looking forward to seeing him back on the field for the start of the pre-season. 

“As a Club, we are throwing our arms around Josh and fully supporting him through his rehab and recovery." 

Gibcus played in Richmond’s Round 1 clash against Carlton this year, after successfully making his AFL return in Round 24 last year. 

Gibcus signed a new three-year contract in March, which will see him remain at the Swinburne Centre until at least the end of 2029.