- Played in Geelong’s preliminary final win over the Hawks
- Has been appearing in marketing videos in the lead up to the clash
Bailey Smith might be a ball magnet for the Geelong Cats, but he also has a knack for attracting controversy – including backlash for a seemingly innocent marketing video released this week.
Smith was featured in a video for Revel Saunas as the face of their latest marketing campaign for products they claim boost circulation, reduce inflammation and sharpen focus.
Smith shows off the ice bath and a traditional barrel sauna, saying he uses both to aid in his recovery after AFL matches.
‘I’m in here every morning, sorts me out, we’re about to get in now,’ he says.
While the content of the marketing campaign is innocuous enough, viewers have picked up on a very rude faux pas from the Geelong star right at the beginning.
As Smith addresses the camera, he appears to adjust his private parts through his pants.
Footy fans called out Bailey Smith for appearing to grab his private parts during a promotional video for a sauna and spa company
‘Why does this advert begin with Smith scratching his nuts?’ One viewer asked.
‘What’s with the crotch grab. I don’t wanna see that,’ fumed another viewer.
‘Seriously why would you allow comments on this ad?’ Asked another.
Smith has been under the spotlight this season since joining the Cats from the Western Bulldogs in a highly-paid shift that could reap immediate rewards.
Geelong booked their passage to the AFL Grand Final with a 17.13 (115) to 13.7 (85) win over Hawthorn in Friday night’s preliminary final.
However Smith’s 2025 season has been as much about headlines off the field as on it.
Early in the year, he stirred controversy with a social media reply referencing ‘nose beers,’ sparking backlash and forcing the AFL to issue a stern warning.
Not long after, Smith made news again when he lashed out at a photographer during Geelong training.
Smith played a huge role in the Cats win over the Hawks in their preliminary final on Friday
Smith has a range of interests outside of footy, including Barry’s Drink that he owns with footy stars Nick Daicos, Charlie Curnow and Josh Daicos
Witnesses reported he swore at the photographer after being snapped while receiving treatment.
The club moved quickly, with Smith and Geelong officials issuing public apologies.
Critics still questioned his behaviour and the broader culture within the club.
Some suggested Smith was struggling to manage the constant media spotlight that follows him.
Earlier in the pre-season, he had already been pulled up for wearing a Nike sweatband with branding against AFL rules. That fashion statement was quickly shut down by the league.
Smith’s personal life has also made just as many headlines. After Tammy Hembrow’s divorce, rumours of a romance between her and Smith began swirling.
Media coverage soon focused on whether she would join him at the Brownlow Medal. Reports later confirmed she would not attend, fuelling even more chatter.
It led to a telling moment in the preliminary final against the Hawks, where Smith hammered home a decisive goal late in the fourth term.
As part of his celebrations, he held his finger to his mouth to hush the Hawthorn supporters.
But it could also be viewed as a protest against all the controversies and headlines that have followed the star midfielder this season.
Geelong will meet the winners of Saturday’s Collingwood-Brisbane clash in next week’s grand final.
