AFL Draft 2025 first round: Image exposes AFL’s biggest farce

The AFL’s night of nights for the next generation has come under heavy fire after the opening round was once again heavily compromised.

The first round of the AFL’s 2025 draft has been thrust into the spotlight with the league’s controversial bidding system under fire.

Four of the first six picks in the draft were academy and father-son selections with the Gold Coast Suns the key benefactor.

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Changes to the system are set to come into play next year, but the frustration from Wednesday night’s opening round will be swirling around rival clubs.

Reigning premiers Brisbane also cashed in with arguably the player of the draft taken at pick six after the Lions matched a bid from Richmond for youngster Daniel Annable.

A total of nine bids were submitted on the night with only two late in the opening round not matched.

Recap the entire nights action below.

Number one pick Willem Duursma is off to the Eagles. (Photo by James Wiltshire/AFL Photos via Getty Images)