Richmond Tigers AFL star Bachar Houli airlifted to hospital after horror car crash

Richmond premiership hero Bachar Houli has been airlifted to a Melbourne hospital  following a severe car crash near Canberra. 

Reports indicate that the ex-AFL star suffered a broken pelvis and multiple fractures during an ill-fated camping excursion.

The accident occurred when the ute carrying Houli and a friend overturned, according to the Herald Sun. 

The former three-time premiership star retired in 2021 after an illustrious career, comprising 232 games, including 26 with Essendon and 206 with Richmond.

A friend of Houli’, who was also involved in the crash, sustained serious injuries. 

Houli retired from the AFL in 2021 but remains a much-loved member of the Tigers family after winning two premierships with Richmond

Houli is known for his love of exploring, camping and getting away from the bright lights of the city

Houli and his children during the 2019 grand final parade. He is in a stable condition in a Melbourne hospital

Following initial treatment at a Canberra hospital, Houli was swiftly transferred by air ambulance to Victoria for further medical attention.

Currently, Houli remains in a stable condition while receiving care at the hospital. 

Despite being aware of the incident, Richmond Football Club was unable to provide any additional information as of Sunday evening.

‘He has been airlifted to a hospital in Melbourne after a car crash away camping for the long weekend,’ Channel 7 AFL reporter Mitch Cleary said.

‘Those close to him tell me tonight that he is in a stable condition, so that is good news.

‘Multiple broken bones. He was involved in a car crash with one other passenger, at least one passenger.

‘He was airlifted to Canberra, he has been transferred to Melbourne.

 ‘Troubling night for the Richmond footy club but we can assure you, I have spoken to people around him, that he is in a stable condition.’ 

The incident happened on the same day Richmond star Marlion Pickett was arrested in Perth on alleged charges of aggravated burglary, stealing and criminal damage. 

Houli made his AFL debut in 2007, playing for the Essendon Football Club. However, he truly thrived after moving to the Tigers in 2011. 

Known for his exceptional skills as a defender, Houli became a key player for Richmond, renowned for his intercept marks and precise disposal. 

He was a pivotal member of the team that won the AFL premiership in 2017, breaking Richmond’s 37-year drought. 

Houli’s profile as one of few practising Muslims in the sport saw him get heavily involved in community outreach, and he won the Jim Stynes Award, which is given annually to the player who does the most significant community work. 

Houli is regarded as a role model  and was invited to promote the 2022 AFL finals series, pictured holding the premiership trophy as an ambassador with CEO Gil McLachlan

Houli is known for his work off the field, pictured with The Jim Stynes Community Leadership Award awarded to players that display exceptional leadership qualities in their community

Houli was a hard-nosed defender and an integral part of the Tigers resurgence to win three AFL flags in recent years

Fans have been quick to send their well wishes to the Tigers star.

‘As an AFC supporter, I greatly admire Bachar for his skill, fairness and such an effervescent character. His role in the wider community should also not be underestimated. Wishing you a speedy recovery,’ one posted.

‘Tough night for Richmond fans jeez. Hoping Bachar is okay always liked watching him play a real role model for younger players,’ posted another.

‘Thoughts and prayers to Bachar Houli and his family. One of my favourite Richmond players,’ added another. 

Known for his passion for camping and his affinity for exploring remote areas with friends, Houli’s love for outdoor adventures has been well-documented. 

Moreover, as the third Muslim to play in the AFL, Houli has served as an inspirational figure for young Australian Muslims.

In 2019, he established the Bachar Houli Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to nurturing young leaders within the Muslim community. The foundation achieves its goals by fostering a sense of belonging through football development.