Footy Legend Hints at Dustin Martin’s Future Plans Amid Fox Footy’s New Broadcast Team Reveal

Bruce McAvaney Returns to Channel 7 as Dustin Martin’s Fox Footy Role Remains Uncertain

Channel 7 and Fox Footy have unveiled their 2025 AFL broadcast teams, headlined by Bruce McAvaney’s return to Channel 7. The veteran commentator will resume his iconic role, while Richmond legend Dustin Martin remains absent from Fox’s official lineup—despite swirling rumors of a move into broadcasting.

Martin’s Mysterious Fox Meeting
Speculation spiked last year when Martin, who retired in 2024, was photographed meeting with Fox Sports boss Steve Crawley, Foxtel CEO Patrick Delany, former teammate Jack Riewoldt, and his agent Ralph Carr. While Fox confirmed the talks, they stopped short of announcing any deal, stating, “We…are always committed to bolstering our on-air talent.”

[IMAGE: Jack Riewoldt (left) and Dustin Martin (right) during their playing days at Richmond. Caption: Riewoldt hinted Martin could still "pop up" on Fox’s coverage in 2025.]

Crawley expressed optimism, calling Martin a “natural” with “something special,” adding, “If he wants to be [a commentator], he’s going to be one.” Martin’s reserved persona during his playing career has surprised fans, but Riewoldt teased, “He only comes out for big occasions…I have a feeling he’ll bob up on Fox sometime.”

Fox’s Star-Studded Lineup
Fox has added Hall of Famer Leigh Matthews, former Eagles coach Adam Simpson, and retirees Shaun Burgoyne and Tom Hawkins to its panel. Meanwhile, Channel 7 has bolstered its team by poaching Kane Cornes from Port Adelaide and welcoming McAvaney back.

[IMAGE: Bruce McAvaney during a Channel 7 broadcast. Caption: McAvaney’s return headlines Channel 7’s 2025 AFL coverage.]

Will Martin Take the Mic?
Despite the buzz, fans remain skeptical. Martin rarely engaged with media during his career, and his transition to broadcasting would defy expectations. However, Riewoldt, now a Fox analyst, downplayed concerns, stating their private discussions have been “good fun” and left the door open.

[IMAGE: Martin (right) with agent Ralph Carr at the Fox meeting. Caption: Martin’s meeting with Fox executives fueled speculation about his post-retirement plans.]

Crawley emphasized Fox’s focus on “elevating the viewing experience,” while Channel 7 aims to reclaim its foothold in AFL coverage. For now, Martin’s future stays in limbo—but with both networks ramping up their talent, 2025 promises to be a standout season for AFL fans.

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