AFL presidents have begun discussing Richard Goyder’s successor after more controversy surrounding the league’s chairman.
The Australian Financial Review reported late on Friday afternoon that conversations are being had about the league’s future leadership given the “corporate meltdown” at Qantas in recent weeks and months, where Goyder also serves as chairman.
“I think there is a pretty strong knock on effect (from the Qantas debacle on Goyder),” Gerard Healy said on AFL Nation.
The publication names Port Adelaide president David Koch and Geelong president Craig Drummond as some of the leading candidates being spoken about between clubs.
Goyder was re-elected at the AFL AGM earlier this year for a further three years. He’s been leading the commission since 2017 and has been on the AFL board since 2011. He previously served on the Fremantle board.
Goyder and outgoing AFL CEO Gillon McLachlan led the game through its toughest period during the COVID years, while it’s widely regarded to be in excellent shape under the leadership of the duo.
The AFL Commission also has two vacancies, both of which have been present since 2021. Michelangelo Rucci reported earlier this week a decision could be made in the next seven days to appoint a football figure to the league’s board, with former GWS captain Phil Davis the early tip.