AFL chief executive Andrew Dillon announced that the league will initiate its own inquiry into the Sydney Swans scandal once the ongoing police investigation has concluded. The league will not conduct its own investigation while the police probe remains active, Dillon stated.
Five Swans players—Isaac Heeney, Chad Warner, Riley Bice, Nick Blakey, and James Jordon—have been suspended for the remainder of the AFL season. The club determined they breached league standards by staying out late, consuming alcohol, and bringing women back to the team hotel. The players have denied any wrongdoing, and no charges have been laid.
During a press conference, Dillon addressed allegations of drug use in the hotel room, stating that the police investigation is underway and that drug testing is a matter for law enforcement. He also emphasized the AFL's stance on respect for women, calling it non-negotiable and asserting that everyone should feel safe and included in football.
"It is a really important and really serious matter, and the AFL cannot get in the way of a police investigation," Dillon said. He added that the actions of a few individuals do not represent the entire industry.
Despite their suspension from the Swans, the players remain eligible to win the Brownlow Medal, the league's highest individual honor. However, Dillon confirmed they will not be invited to attend the AFL's annual awards night.