The AFL has officially postponed the Round 5 clash between Fremantle Dockers and Richmond Tigers, originally scheduled for Saturday, April 11, 2026 at Optus Stadium in Perth.
The decision follows the sudden and tragic passing of Fremantle’s much-loved Head of Football Operations, Chris Bond, who died unexpectedly overnight at the age of 56. Bond, a former Dockers player (1995–1999) and one of the most respected figures in the club’s history, suffered a massive heart attack while at home in Perth. He was pronounced deceased upon arrival at Fiona Stanley Hospital.
In a joint statement released this morning, the AFL, Fremantle Dockers and Richmond Tigers confirmed:
“Out of respect for Chris Bond’s family, the Fremantle Football Club, its players, staff and wider community, and with the full support of the Richmond Football Club, the AFL has postponed the Round 5 match between Fremantle and Richmond. Both clubs are grieving a much-loved colleague, mentor and friend. Football will take a back seat while the Dockers family comes together to mourn and support one another. We will work closely with both clubs to reschedule the fixture at a later date in 2026. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Chris’s wife, children, extended family, and everyone who knew and loved him.”
Chris Bond was a cornerstone of Fremantle since retiring as a player. He served in multiple high-level roles including list manager, football manager and Head of Football Operations since 2017. Widely credited with helping rebuild the list that delivered finals appearances in 2022 and 2023, Bond was known for his integrity, dry humour, fierce loyalty to the purple jumper, and his ability to connect with everyone from young draftees to senior coaches.
Dockers CEO Steve Rosich released a separate emotional tribute: “Chris was more than a colleague — he was family. His passion for the club, his wisdom, and his kindness touched every single person here. We are absolutely devastated. Right now, our focus is on supporting his family and each other. Football can wait.”
Richmond issued their own message of support: “The Richmond Football Club extends its heartfelt condolences to the Bond family, the Fremantle Dockers, and everyone affected by this tragic loss. Chris was a giant of the game and a genuinely good man. We stand with Freo during this heartbreaking time.”
The news has sent shockwaves through the AFL community. Tributes have poured in from across the league, with past and present players, coaches and officials sharing memories of Bond’s warmth and football knowledge. Social media is filled with purple and yellow ribbons, #ValeChrisBond, and messages from fans who considered him one of the most genuine figures in the sport.
No new date for the Fremantle vs Richmond match has been set yet. The AFL has indicated both teams will receive a bye-equivalent round in the short term to allow time for mourning and recovery.
A private funeral service will be held for family and close friends, with a public memorial expected at Optus Stadium in the coming weeks.
A light has gone out at Fremantle. The purple army — and the entire AFL — mourns deeply.
Rest in peace, Chris Bond.
