Most-followed AFL player Bailey Smith removes Instagram account
Bailey Smith, with more than 400,000 Instagram followers, most of any AFL player, has deleted his account.
Bailey Smith, 25, has deleted his Instagram account, which had the most followers of any AFL player. The deletion followed a controversial Brownlow Medal night where he arrived late, avoided the red carpet, and posted a selfie in a Crown casino lift.
Why he deleted the account is unknown. Smith has spoken openly about past mental health struggles.
As one of the AFL's most marketable players, he faces intense public scrutiny. AFL CEO Andrew Dillon praised his 2026 season, calling him 'one of the most marketable players in the competition.'
- More than 400,000
- Instagram followers
- 25
- Age
- Runner-up behind Nick Daicos
- Brownlow Medal finish
Why it mattersA major AFL star's sudden withdrawal from social media raises questions about the toll of intense public scrutiny on high-profile athletes.
AustraliaAustralian AFL fans following Smith on Instagram lose access to his posts and stories, a rare move for one of sport's most active social media personalities.
Corroborated by7news.com.au
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 11 h ago
