The Grade Cricketer Scissor lifts, media wars and Madge, with Craig Foster
Mar 11, 2026
Craig Foster, former Socceroo turned broadcaster and human rights advocate, shares vivid memories of Tehran 1997 and Melbourne's aftermath. He talks about football’s evolution in Australia, Matildas expectations, and global governance concerns involving big money and rights. He also reflects on the personal cost of athlete advocacy and sprinkles in nostalgic team and school stories.
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Tehran 1997 Crowd Broke All The Communication Rules
- Craig Foster recalled Tehran 1997 as the loudest crowd he played in and how 129,000 men whistled every time Australia had the ball, making on-field communication impossible.
- He described Harry Kewell rising above the noise with composed skill and the team needing players who ignore hostile atmospheres to perform.
F1 Feels Like A Fashion Festival As Much As A Race
- Pezza described attending the F1 and missing Oscar Piastri's crash in the warmup, realizing the crowd watched a live replay as Piastri hit the wall before the race start.
- He captured the festival atmosphere, brand activations like Casa Ferrari, and fans' tribal devotion to drivers and teams.
Melbourne Second Leg Turned Momentum Into Missed Chance
- Foster recounted the chaotic second leg in Melbourne where a pitch invader and interruptions killed Australia's momentum and the team ultimately drew, costing World Cup qualification.
- He says he never watches the match back because it was painful, but believes the team also exposed institutional weaknesses that necessitated later reform.