The AFL has confirmed that former Geelong Cats president Craig Drummond will take over as chairman ahead of the 2026 season, replacing Richard Goyder after his nine-year stint at the helm.
Drummond, a seasoned business leader and long-time AFL administrator, was unanimously endorsed by the league's Commission following what it described as a "rigorous selection process" involving club presidents and a global recruitment firm.
The 62-year-old previously led Geelong through a successful period that included the 2022 premiership and the completion of the Joel Selwood Stand at GMHBA Stadium.
Announcing the appointment, Goyder said Drummond's mix of football knowledge and corporate experience made him the ideal successor.
"Our national game is in great shape, but we can't afford to stand still," Goyder said in the AFL's official statement. "The Commissioners and I have every confidence that when my term ends in March, Craig is the right person to lead a new era of growth and engagement with our fans, our clubs, and our broadcast partners."
Drummond's credentials span three decades in finance, including roles at NAB, Goldman Sachs, and Bank of America Merrill Lynch, before becoming CEO of Medibank. He also chairs several major organisations, among them Transurban Group and the Australian Foundation Investment Company.
His nomination will be formally presented to clubs at the Commission's Annual General Meeting in March, where his appointment as chair will be confirmed.