“100 per cent”: Dusty will play for Gold Coast next year, says Demons great

Dustin Martin will leave Richmond and sign a two-year deal with Gold Coast at the end of the 2024 season, according to David Schwarz.

Martin has long been linked with the Suns, but has always remained with the Tigers.

Damien Hardwick is now the coach of Gold Coast however and the three-time Norm Smith Medallist is out of contract at the end of the season.

Schwarz is certain that Martin will not only continue his AFL career in 2025, but will be doing so in Queensland.

“I’ll give you 100 per cent. And this isn’t 97 per cent or 98 per cent,” the Melbourne great told SEN WA Breakfast.

“100 per cent Dustin Martin will be playing at the Gold Coast next year on a two-year contract.

“You can take it to the bank. Put it in the bank right now and collect the interest. It’s done.

“You will see that he will be playing for the Gold Coast next year and I reckon you’ll find he plays the majority of home games and travel might not be a big option for him.

“I think what he brings is a bit of star factor and people through the gates and he is a great leader on the training track and on the field.

“Sometimes actions speak louder than words, but when he talks he commands enormous respect and for a young group, it’s only benefits that he brings.

“He’s got his outside life under control. He’s mature. His example is exactly what the Suns need. He brings marketing dollars, he’s got a great relationship with the coach, he knows the system and he goes up there in a playing and behind the scenes role.

“It’s just a win-win. Richmond gets a nice pick for him and he gets another opportunity and I think everybody wins in this.”

Martin has played 301 career games for Richmond and was subbed out on the weekend with back soreness.