Kochie reportedly eyeing off top job in AFL

Port Adelaide chairman David Koch is reportedly positioning himself to succeed Richard Goyder as the next AFL chairman, in a potential shake-up that could ripple through both the league and the Power’s leadership structure.

According to veteran journalist Damian Barrett, Koch, who has chaired Port Adelaide since 2012, is “eyeing off” what is widely regarded as the most powerful position in Australian rules football.

“David Koch, along with Ken Hinkley, has transformed this footy club from what it once was, but he is eyeing off a potential spot on the AFL Commission as well,” Barrett said on Nine’s Footy Classified. “Not just a spot on the commission, but potentially to be the chair of it.”

The current AFL chairman, Richard Goyder – also the former Qantas chairman – has led the AFL since 2017, succeeding Carlton great Mike Fitzpatrick. While many within the league had expected Goyder to step down when his current term ends in early 2026, The Age reported in late 2024 that he is seeking another term, which would extend his tenure until 2028.

This ambition reportedly blindsided several AFL clubs, who were under the impression a leadership transition was imminent. Goyder has served on the AFL Commission since 2011, and prominent football figures are now calling for a change.

“After serving the game admirably as a commissioner since 2011 and chairman since 2017, it's simply time for Richard Goyder to pull up stumps, this year,” Brownlow Medallist Gerard Healy told SEN. “At worst, orchestrate a 12-month handover to the incoming chairman, who can get to work immediately.”

Barrett suggested that Koch’s potential move to the AFL Commission – and possibly into the chairman’s seat – adds to the uncertainty surrounding Port Adelaide, especially as the club prepares for life after long-serving coach Ken Hinkley.

“I raise that as part of the backdrop of instability and uncertainty at Port Adelaide as it wades through this Ken Hinkley to Josh Carr transition,” Barrett said. “You’ve got the chair of the club also unknown.”

Koch, a former TV presenter best known for co-hosting Sunrise, has played a key role in Port Adelaide’s revival over the past decade. However, his possible pursuit of a league-wide role could usher in a new era of change for both club and code.

Whether Goyder chooses to extend his reign or step aside for new leadership, the months ahead promise to be significant for the AFL's executive future – and Port Adelaide’s.

Images: 9 Network