With the 2026 NPL Queensland Women’s season kicking off this Friday night, we’ve turned to some of the most respected names in the Football Queensland media sphere to share their thoughts on how the campaign might unfold. Find out who is best poised to challenge, the rising contenders to keep an eye on, and the storylines that could shape what promises to be another tightly contested season.
Amy Webster – FQTV Commentator
“If 2025 was close, the 2026 NPL Queensland Women’s competition is shaping up to be even tighter. I’m expecting Gold Coast Knights and Brisbane City to start how they finished last year, with Knights looking to avenge their narrow Grand Final defeat. Brisbane City have already made statements with the return of Eash Norrie and prolific goalscorer Steph Latham. I also can’t look past Olympic FC, who stormed back into the top flight after a strong showing in FQPL1 last year. Cam Foulkes’ side have retained key players from their FQPL 1 triumph and have made some great signings, including talented youngster Tia Appoo, which could see them be the surprise package in season 2026.”
Premiers: Brisbane City
Champions: Gold Coast Knights
Top 4: Brisbane City, Gold Coast Knights, Lions FC, Olympic FC
Adam Pace – Brisbane Football Review
“Another competitive NPL Queensland Women season is on the cards, with a number of the chasing contenders significantly strengthening their squads. Eastern Suburbs look to have a strong defence, while Lions look to return to the summit with some impressive overseas signings, while Gold Coast Knights will be relying on the majority of last year’s squad in their title defence. Brisbane City also have a familiar look as last year’s Grand Final winners, while promoted Olympic FC have recruited strongly in their NPL Queensland return.”
Premiers: Eastern Suburbs
Champions: Lions
Top 4: Eastern Suburbs, Gold Coast Knights, Lions FC, Olympic FC
Scott Owen – Brisbane Football Review
“Off the back of an NPL Women season which went down to the final weeks of the season, 2026 is shaping up to be one of the closest seasons yet with such strong competition across the board. Last year’s Premiers Gold Coast Knights look like they will challenge for silverware once again, as do Brisbane City as they chase a hat trick of Grand Finals. Easts and Lions both also look strong and will once again be right there or thereabouts when the trophies are handed out after strong recruitment over the summer. It’s fantastic to see both Capalaba FC and Olympic FC return to the top flight and look forward to seeing what they can do over the course of the season.”
Premiers: Eastern Suburbs
Champions: Lions FC
Top 4: Eastern Suburbs, Lions FC, Gold Coast Knights, Brisbane City
Allan Croall – FQTV Commentator
“Gold Coast Knights were outstanding last season and come into the new campaign as deserved favourites, with their depth and consistency still setting the standard. Eastern Suburbs and Lions FC should again be strong finals contenders, while Brisbane City have the firepower to trouble any side on their day. It should make for another exciting season and I can’t wait to watch it unfold. “
Premiers: Gold Coast Knights
Champions: Brisbane City
Top 4: Gold Coast Knights, Brisbane City, Lions FC, Eastern Suburbs
James Caughlin – FQTV Commentator & Brisbane Football Review
“I’m expecting more of the same in 2026 at the top of the NPL ladder, with the same top four albeit in a different order. The chasing pack should also be in it until the final day of the season as well (which will be fun for us to follow) and I wouldn’t be at all surprised if the promoted sides get off to a faster than expected start, springing a few upsets on the way. It feels like the only guarantee is that the Grand Final is going to be decided after the 85th minute once again.”
Premiers: Brisbane City FC
Champions: Eastern Suburbs
Top 4: Brisbane City FC, Eastern Suburbs, Lions FC, Gold Coast Knights
