Geelong AFL star Bailey Smith is facing a significant driving ban after being caught speeding excessively during Victoria's recent bushfire emergency. The midfielder was reportedly travelling at 125km/h in a 105km/h zone near his Surf Coast residence this week, putting him 20km/h over the legal limit.
Licence Suspension Looms for Football Star
With this latest infringement adding demerit points to his record, Smith has now exceeded the permissible threshold and will likely lose his driver's licence entirely. The suspension is expected to last for a minimum of three months, severely impacting his personal mobility during this period.
Ironically, Smith was reportedly concerned about wildlife on his expansive 5.8-hectare Bellbrae property along the Great Ocean Road when police intercepted him for speeding. The timing proved particularly unfortunate given the ongoing bushfire threats across the region.
Pattern of Controversial Behaviour Emerges
This incident represents just the latest in a series of off-field controversies surrounding the 25-year-old footballer. Earlier this year, Smith faced criticism for social media conduct that included what some interpreted as homophobic references.
During Mad Monday celebrations in 2025, Smith posted an Instagram photo of himself embracing another man with a caption referencing the film Brokeback Mountain. The post drew sharp criticism from Mitch Brown, the first AFL player to publicly identify as bisexual, who labelled Smith a 'loser' for the insensitive reference.
The controversial post also featured veteran football journalist Caroline Wilson, with Smith adding the caption: 'This is what granny does to ya. Or Brokeback Mountain, depends how ya look at it.' The ensuing controversy led to the cancellation of future Mad Monday celebrations at the club.
Previous Confrontations with Media
Earlier in the same year, Smith engaged in a heated confrontation with a female photographer from the Geelong Advertiser. After being photographed giving the middle finger while receiving treatment for a back injury during an open training session, Smith told the photographer she did a 'f***g s**t job' and accused her of trying to 'bait' him.
He insisted his treatment constituted a 'private moment,' despite the session being officially open to media representatives. The exchange occurred in front of multiple journalists, photographers, and camera operators, prompting AFL CEO Andrew Dillon to personally address Smith about his behaviour and social media content.
Personal Life Under Scrutiny
Smith's personal life has also attracted considerable attention in recent months. Last July, he announced joining the dating app Tinder before partnering with former partner Tammy Hembrow in December to promote the platform.
More recently, the bachelor was spotted on what appeared to be a beach date in Manly, Sydney, with an unidentified blonde woman. On Sunday, the same woman accompanied him on a flight into Melbourne, where Smith offered his characteristic one-fingered salute to photographers upon noticing their presence.
The Geelong midfielder is currently preparing for the 2026 AFL season following his team's bruising grand final defeat to the Brisbane Lions in November. With his driving privileges now suspended and his off-field conduct under continued scrutiny, Smith faces significant challenges both personally and professionally as he approaches the new season.
