AFL world mourns shock death of “genius” Andrew Krakouer

Nathan Buckley has paid tribute to Andrew Krakouer who passed away on Sunday.

The former Richmond and Collingwood player died from a suspected heart attack at the age of 42 in Perth.

Buckley coached Krakouer at the Magpies in 2012 and 2013.

“That’s tragic stuff, so young at 42,” said Buckley on SEN’s Whateley.

“Geez, he went through a bit in his life, ‘Krak’. He probably had the worst of it and the best of it.

“He showed real grit to fight back and do what he did in his career.

“He made the most of his opportunities. He was troubled at times, but what a brilliant footballer.

“A really calm and quiet teammate who was respectful and went about his business. I really enjoyed the years with him.

“That’s just really sad for his family, first and foremost, and his mates.”

Krakouer’s best season for the Pies came in 2011 with Buckley as assistant coach when he played 23 games and kicked 35 goals, including three majors in the losing Grand Final.

He did not play at senior level in 2012 until Round 23 before featuring in three finals under Buckley, who was in shock when speaking of the news.

“We would get him in whenever we could,” Buckley added.

“He was just a genius, he was just a player that could do the special things. The hanger he took in 2011 at Marvel was elite (when he took Mark of the Year).

“He just loved the game, found a way to impact and could do things that other plays couldn’t do. He was exceptional.

“That’s a bit of a shock.”

Krakouer played 102 games and kicked 102 goals for the Tigers between 2001 and 2007 before adding a further 35 games and 50 goals to his name for the Pies from 2011-2013.

Former Richmond player and CEO Brendon Gale paid tribute to Krakouer on X.

The pair played together in 2001.

Tigers great Matthew Richardson spent seven seasons playing alongside Krakouer, the son of North Melbourne great Jim and nephew of Phil.

The Richmond Football Club has since released a statement regarding Krakouer's passing, with quotes from CEO Shane Dunne.

“Andrew’s time at Richmond will always be remembered fondly, and we send our deepest condolences to Andrew’s family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time,” Dunne said.

“Andrew’s legacy extends beyond his football career. His contributions to the game were matched by the strength of his character and resilience.

“He was a trailblazer and fittingly wore our colours for the first AFL Dreamtime at the ‘G match in 2005.

"He was very proud of his culture and someone that young Indigenous players looked up to and he was an ongoing supporter of Korin Gamadji, which we are very grateful for.

“His passing will be felt across the AFL community such was his impact on the game.

“On behalf of the Richmond Football Club we send our condolences to Andrew’s family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.”

Collingwood also released a statement featuring quotes from president Barry Carp.

“On behalf of the Collingwood Football Club, we are shocked at the terrible early loss of Andrew and our thoughts are with his family and many friends within football,” Carp said.

“Andrew represented Collingwood in 35 games between 2011-2013. Fans will always remember his Mark of the Year at Marvel Stadium and the three goals he kicked in the 2011 Grand Final against Geelong.

“Andrew played a leadership role at Collingwood, strengthening relationships with First Nations players and contributing to building greater understanding in our game. He sought to assist others where he could and spoke to many school groups about his experiences through football and life.

“Collingwood extends its deepest condolences to his partner Barbara, his children and the wider Krakouer family.”