Ron Barassi dies: AFL legend passes away aged 87

Kieran Francis

Ron Barassi dies: AFL legend passes away aged 87 image

AFL legend Ron Barassi has passed away, aged 87.

The news about Barassi's death was communicated publicly just before 6pm on Saturday night with a statement from Barassi's family.

Barassi was a six-time Premiership player during his 204 games with Melbourne, while he also played 50 games at Carlton.

He also coached at four AFL clubs over a 31-year period, steering Carlton and North Melbourne to two premierships each.

"After a full and extraordinary life, Ronald Dale Barassi, aged 87, left us today due to complications from a fall,” his family wrote in a statement.

"He died peacefully, surrounded by loving family.

"We ask for privacy at this time."

More to come.

Kieran Francis

Kieran Francis Photo

Kieran Francis is a senior editor at The Sporting News based in Melbourne, Australia. He started at Sportal.com.au before being a part of the transition to Sporting News in 2015. Just prior to the 2018 World Cup, he was appointed chief editor of Goal.com in Australia. He has now returned to The Sporting News where his passions lay in football, AFL, poker and cricket - when he is not on holiday.