As another year of footy approaches, every club's fanbase enters the season with a sense of cautious optimism.

However, some have more reason to be hopeful than most, as their side looks to embed itself into AFL folklore.

Could we see a three-peat in 2026, or will a new club be crowned as kings of the competition?

Here are the five teams most likely to win the 2026 AFL premiership...

3Gold Coast Suns

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 29: Ben King of the Suns is congratulated by Matt Rowell of the Suns after kicking a goal during the round three AFL match between Melbourne Demons and Gold Coast Suns at Melbourne Cricket Ground, on March 29, 2025, in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Quinn Rooney/Getty Images)
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 29: Ben King of the Suns is congratulated by Matt Rowell of the Suns after kicking a goal during the round three AFL match between Melbourne Demons and Gold Coast Suns at Melbourne Cricket Ground, on March 29, 2025, in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Quinn Rooney/Getty Images)

Gold Coast are entering 2026 full of momentum, buoyed by the rapid development of their young talent and addition of superstar figures.

With Christian Petracca entering the engine room in particular, alongside Brownlow fancies Noah Anderson and the 2025 winner Matthew Rowell, the expectation should be no less than a top-four finish for the Suns.

Additionally, the Suns ranked in the top four for clearances won, scores from stoppages and scores originating from centre bounces in 2025. Considering Petracca won over 16.5 possessions in the attacking half per game last year - more than any other midfielder - that rate is likely to remain for Damien Hardwick's side.

To be able to compete with the reigning premiers, control in that area of the ground is paramount. On paper, there may be no club better tasked at taking down the Lions than their inner-state nemesis.

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