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Carlton Football Club player suspensions

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2026-10-16 03:08 UTC → 2026-10-16 04:18 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Carlton Football Club players Lachie Cowan and Will Hayward were hospitalised following separate incidents on a Sunday morning. Initial reports indicated that Cowan underwent medical treatment and observation, while Hayward sought treatment for a minor head injury sustained during a fall. Subsequent reports clarified that Cowan, 21, was treated for a seizure at Alfred Hospital. While Hayward denied drug use and was expected to avoid sanctions, the AFL has since officially suspended Cowan for the first two matches of the 2027 season. Following an investigation into his use of an illicit substance during a party in South Yarra, Cowan was found guilty of conduct unbecoming. In addition to the two-match ban, Cowan has been issued a $5,000 suspended fine and a notifiable adverse finding under the league’s Illicit Drugs Policy. He will also be required to undergo additional education regarding the effects of illicit substances. Cowan described the incident as a ‘wake-up call’ and apologised to his family and the club. Teammate Will Hayward, who was hospitalised after sustaining a minor head injury in the shower during the same event, will not face sanctions. Further disciplinary action has been taken against defender Wade Derksen, who has been suspended by Carlton for all pre-season games and the first three matches of the 2027 season. This follows a drink-driving charge in the Northern Territory, where Derksen allegedly failed a roadside breath test in Jabiru. Derksen has apologised and is scheduled to appear in court next month. In response to these incidents, the AFL announced a new illicit drugs policy effective January 2027, which will include hair testing for all players upon their return to training. The AFL Players’ Association expressed concern regarding the practice of sanctioning players after they have sought emergency medical ~~treatment.~~ treatment and the sharing of private medical information.

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