Sam Kekovich: AFL great goes rogue mid-interview to slam the Voice after being asked about Ron Barassi

Former football great and Australian Lamb ambassador Sam Kekovich has unexpectedly used the death of AFL legend Ron Barassi to take a foul-mouthed swipe at the Indigenous Voice to Parliament referendum.

The move into politics came when Kekovich was interviewed about his memories of being coached by Barassi in the North Melbourne sides of 1975 and 1977, which won the club its first two premierships.

Barassi, who won no fewer than thirteen premierships as a player and coach, died on Saturday at the age of 87.

Kekovich, who has become a cult figure for spearheading annual Australia Day advertising campaigns to eat more lamb, was asked about the suggestion that the AFL premiership cup be named after Barassi.

“I’ve been asked this question several times, it’s probably a no-brainer, but is that big enough? Big enough recognition?’ Kekovitch replied.

‘I think you could rename the country after Barassi.

“You know they want to change the course of our history. Well, why don’t you take that away and call Australia Barassi Country.

‘I think it would be unanimous. We wouldn’t need a referendum, I can guarantee you that.

‘I don’t know what else you can do, but a Premier League cup is certainly appropriate.

‘Something else? I don’t know, but whatever you do, please don’t ask the politicians in this country.’

While the AFL officially supports The Voice, it has decided not to run an official campaign on the issue during the finals season.

The decision has reportedly disappointed government figures who were hoping for an extra boost for the Yes side as the October 14 referendum date approaches.

A range of ideas were reportedly discussed to promote the Voice during the final, including border line advertising and a recitation.

The Voice campaign has received support from several high-profile current and former AFL players, including retired Essendon great Michael Long.

He undertook a walk from Melbourne to Canberra to raise support for the Voice, and this week said he would also petition King Charles.

Kekovich has become a cult figure for his annual Australia Day lamb advertising campaigns

A number of other Indigenous AFL champions, such as Eddie Betts and Adam Goodes, have also voiced their support for the Voice.

Geelong controversy magnet Sam Newman is one of the few AFL identities to have spoken out against the proposal.

Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has criticized the AFL and NRL for their public support for the Yes campaign.

“Their fans are really scratching their heads as to why the sport’s elites are taking a stand on The Voice,” Dutton said.