Gold Coast superstar Matt Rowell has verbally committed to remaining on the glitter strip for the 2026 AFL season.
The 2019 No.1 draft pick replied simply, “yes”, when asked on Triple M Gold with Leisel Jones, Liam & Spida, “will you be here (at the Suns) in 2026?”.
Rowell, 23, has been pursued by powerful Victorian clubs Geelong, Essendon, and Collingwood. The Bulldogs were also rumoured to be interested.
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Tuesday’s answer is the first time he has properly committed to remaining at Gold Coast beyond this season.
News Corp reports he is yet to give such a definitive answer to the club, though.
It will be a relief for the Suns and their fans, a week after a Rowell press conference left more questions than answers.
Matt Rowell. AFL Photos via Getty Images
When pressed on the reports he was being chased by several rival clubs, the star onballer failed to knock speculation on the head.
“I am not worrying about that [the contract situation] at the moment,” he told media.
“I am just focusing on training well and getting ready for the season. I am committed to the Suns and just focused on the season coming up.”
That press conference came just days after Rowell was one of six Suns named in a 2025 leadership group.
Gold Coast has not made AFL finals in their 14 years in the league and the loss of Rowell would have been another hammer blow for the Queensland club.
The Suns begin their season against Essendon on March 8.
