The AFL season is just around the corner, and fans are starting to believe that their team can compete for a premiership in 2026.
There are 11 teams with a legitimate chance to overcome the barriers in their way to lift the trophy come September, but only one side can do the honours. So, what may cause these premiership fancies to fall short of the AFL's pinnacle?
Here's one reason your favourite club will win the 2026 AFL premiership, and one reason why they won't...
Fremantle
WHY - The midfield group can take them all the way
Fremantle own a star-studded midfield with Caleb Serong, Andrew Brayshaw and Luke Jackson leading the way.
What those three can produce on any given day is well publicised, but the x-factor among this group is Hayden Young's health.
Young is a player who can break the lines in the midfield with his speed and precision kicking ability. He can also spend time forward, taking some marks and slotting goals.
If Young can stay healthy throughout the season and finals, a potential date with Grand Final weekend will be well within their sights.
WHY NOT - Interstate record
Fremantle have always been a dominant team at home, notching 10 wins from 13 contests at Optus Stadium in 2025.
However, when playing away from home, the 'Purple Haze' had a record of six wins and four losses.
While most teams typically boast a stronger home record than away, Fremantle's inability to win on the road consistently could hinder their premiership chances, especially if they fail to clinch a home preliminary final.
This current nucleus of talent has won just the one finals game, a 2022 elimination final thriller against the Bulldogs held in Perth. Following that, the Dockers lost at the MCG convincingly to Collingwood.
The bottom line is, if this team wants to be viewed seriously, they need to figure out how to be more competitive interstate more often.
