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Carlton players face suspensions for drug use and drink-driving
The Carlton Football Club is facing significant off-season disciplinary issues involving multiple players. Defender Lachie Cowan has been suspended by the AFL for the first two matches of the 2027 season and issued a $5,000 suspended fine following an investigation into his use of an illicit substance. The incident, which resulted in Cowan being hospitalized after a seizure, led to a finding of ‘conduct unbecoming’. The AFL Players’ Association noted the incident and expressed concerns regarding the sharing of private medical information.
Separately, defender Wade Derksen has been suspended by Carlton for the entire preseason and the first three games of the 2027 season after being charged with drink-driving. Derksen allegedly returned a ‘high-range’ reading during a roadside breath test in Jabiru, Northern Territory, in late September. He is scheduled to appear in court next month and has agreed to undergo counseling.
Forward Will Hayward was also hospitalized following a separate incident involving a head injury from a fall, but he has not faced any sanctions from the club or the league.
Entities
AFL · AFL Players’ Association · Carlton Football Club · Chris Davies · Lachie Cowan · Tom Harley · Wade Derksen · Will Hayward
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 3 SOURCES] Carlton football boss Chris Davies stated the players' health is the priority.
- [● 3 SOURCES] The players are currently on leave from the Carlton Football Club.
- [● 3 SOURCES] Lachie Cowan is expected to receive a two-match ban from the AFL.
- [● 3 SOURCES] Lachie Cowan suffered a seizure at Will Hayward’s house in South Yarra.
- [● 3 SOURCES] Will Hayward has denied any drug use.
- [● 3 SOURCES] Will Hayward required hospital treatment for a head injury sustained in a shower.