AFL superstar Dustin Martin has ended his professional relationship with prominent sports agent Ralph Carr following Carr's conviction for rape. Carr, 66, was found guilty of two counts of rape and one count of sexual assault by the Victorian County Court. His identity, previously protected by suppression orders for nearly three years, can now be publicly revealed.
Martin issued a statement on Monday confirming the immediate severance of ties with Carr, who managed the athlete throughout his decorated career with the Richmond Football Club. "I was shocked to learn of the outcome of the court proceedings," Martin said. "I had no knowledge whatsoever of the conduct that led to these convictions. My thoughts are with those affected."
Carr's agency played a significant role in building Martin's commercial profile, promoting him as a "cultural icon" and a "powerful brand." The agency secured partnerships with companies such as Bonds, Jeep, Voost, Archies, and Kennedy Luxury Group, and claimed Martin's merchandise sales surpassed any other player in AFL history. Martin and Carr also co-own a real estate portfolio.
The convictions stem from an incident at Carr's Melbourne home in March 2023, where the court heard he assaulted a woman after they consumed alcohol and cocaine. Prosecutors stated the woman explicitly refused consent, but Carr proceeded with the assault and rape. The woman contacted her mother, leading to police arriving at Carr's residence.
Carr maintained his innocence, denying any sexual contact. His barrister has indicated an intention to appeal the conviction, citing a "substantial miscarriage of justice." Carr is scheduled to return to court for a pre-sentence hearing later in August. Carr's bail was revoked following the jury's verdict on July 28, and he was taken into custody.
During his tenure with Carr, Martin achieved significant accolades, including the 2017 Brownlow Medal, three premierships with Richmond, and a record three Norm Smith Medals. Martin stated he would make no further comment on the matter due to its legal nature.