Football greats are expressing their shock at a racism class action being levelled against the AFL.

The legal action is being driven by North Melbourne greats Phil and Jimmy Krakouer  who claim they were subjected to vile racism in the 1980s.

Kevin Sheedy, Terry Daniher, Wayne Johnston, Roger Merrett and Bill Duckworth are among those accused of racial abuse in the statement of claim.

Sports reporter Mark Readings said the landmark class-action would further expand the polarising investigations opened up by the Hawthorn racism case.

Press PLAY to hear more