AFL news 2025: Former Richmond and Collingwood player Andrew Krakouer dead at the age of 42

WARNING: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers are advised that the following article contains the name and images of deceased persons.

The AFL world has again been rocked by a tragic passing, with former Richmond and Collingwood player Andrew Krakouer dead at the age of 42.

Multiple outlets reported on Monday morning that Krakouer had suffered a suspected heart attack on Sunday in Perth.

Krakouer kicked 152 goals from 137 AFL games. He played 102 matches for Richmond and 35 for Collingwood, including a three-goal haul for the Magpies in the 2011 Grand Final.

“Rest in peace Andrew Krakouer,” Tigers legend Matthew Richardson wrote on X.

“A beautiful man who was loved by all his teammates. Always greeted you with a hug and a smile.

“Love to Jimmy and Andrew’s daughters and all his family. Very sad day.”

Former Collingwood coach Nathan Buckley described Krakouer as “a genius” player.

“He made the most of his opportunities,” Buckley said on SEN’s Whateley.

“He was troubled at times, but what a brilliant footballer. Really calm, quiet teammate who was respectful and went about his business.

“I really enjoyed the years with him, and that’s really sad for his family, first and foremost

“He was just a genius. He was just a player who could do the special things … the hanger he took in 2011 on Marvel was elite. He loved the game, found a way to impact and could do things other players couldn’t do. He was exceptional.”

After his AFL career, Krakouer became a popular member of the footy media, in particular for his role as co-host for Yokayi Footy. He also commentated some AFLW games for Fox Footy.

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