Essendon has unveiled its 2026 Challenge Jumper, honouring one of the club's most meaningful partnerships and the legacy of former Bomber Adam Ramanauskas, whose experience with cancer inspired the club's original Call to Arms campaign.

For the first time in the club's history, the player numbers will be transformed from the traditional white to Challenge yellow. A bold statement of the club's commitment to the fight against childhood cancer, visible from every seat in the stadium and every screen at home.

The iconic yellow armband features once more on the jumper, a symbol of the strength shown by patients, families and communities facing cancer every day. The Challenge logo sits on the lower back of the jumper, recognising the charity that benefits from funds raised through the annual match.

The partnership between Essendon and Challenge began in 2003 and now stands among the longest-running relationships between an AFL club and a charity, with more than $1 million raised for children and families living with cancer over more than two decades.

Challenge provides practical assistance, emotional support and unforgettable experiences for children and families living with cancer throughout treatment and recovery.

The club's commitment runs well beyond one match a year. Led by Mason Redman and Matt Guelfi, Essendon AFL and AFLW players regularly visit Challenge House and the Royal Children's Hospital, bringing joy and happiness to kids and their families during the most challenging of periods. Last weekend, more than 20 AFL and AFLW players took part in the Challenge Slumber Party, spending the evening with Challenge kids and their families.

Essendon CEO Tim Roberts said the Challenge Match held a special place on the club's calendar.

"The annual Challenge Match is one we always look forward to," Roberts said.

"This year, for the first time, our players will wear yellow numbers on their backs. It's a small change with a big meaning and every number represents the kids and families Challenge supports, and our club's promise to stand with them.

"Supporting an incredible organisation like Challenge is something we're immensely proud of, with the charity continuing to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families throughout their cancer journey.

"We'd also like to thank Yakult for its ongoing support of the Challenge Match and its continued commitment to this important cause."

Challenge CEO David Rogers said the partnership with Essendon showed what sport could do beyond the boundary line.

"Our partnership with Essendon is one of the longest running of its kind in Australian sport, and it continues to grow because both organisations believe in tackling childhood cancer together," Rogers said.

"Seeing our yellow on the numbers of every Essendon player this year is an incredibly powerful moment for the kids and families we support. When they watch the Bombers run out, they'll know an entire club and its supporters are behind them.

"Every ticket bought, every donation made and every guernsey bid makes a real difference to families when they need it most."

This year, the club and Challenge are aiming to raise more than $50,000, and every contribution counts.

Be there when Essendon takes on the GIANTS at Marvel Stadium in the annual Challenge game, with $5 from every adult GA ticket donated to Challenge. Buy tickets here.

You can also support Challenge by donating directly or bidding on a player-worn or player-issued playing jumper, each signed by the player, here.

Tackling Childhood Cancer Together.