Sydney: The Sydney Swans have suspended five players for the remainder of the Australian Football League (AFL) season due to an incident involving late-night drinking and the presence of women in the team's hotel after a match in Melbourne. Isaac Heeney, Chad Warner, Nick Blakey, James Jordon, and Riley Bice will not be considered for selection for the rest of the 2026 AFL season, as announced by the club on Wednesday.

According to Anadolu Agency, the AFL has supported the sanctions following an internal inquiry into the players' conduct. The club stated that their actions are independent of an ongoing investigation by Victoria Police into a reported sexual assault at the hotel following Sunday's victory over Essendon. The police have disclosed that the circumstances are still under investigation, with no arrests or charges made at this time.

Swans Chief Executive Matthew Pavlich commented on the breach of club standards, highlighting that the players' actions of staying out late, consuming alcohol, and bringing women back to the hotel violated the expected conduct. Although no curfew was imposed on the players, their behavior was deemed unacceptable by the club. Pavlich expressed deep regret over the situation, acknowledging the negative impact on the women involved, the club, its supporters, and the broader community.

Pavlich refrained from discussing whether drug testing had been conducted on the players, citing the potential relevance to the police investigation. The suspension will affect the upcoming final regular-season match against North Melbourne and the entire finals campaign, a significant blow to the team's performance prospects.

Chairman Andrew Pridham issued an apology to supporters, corporate partners, players, and the community, calling the incident a "very sad day." He emphasized that the board's decision was not influenced by sporting outcomes, despite the challenge of continuing the season without five key players. The Swans, who finished second in the AFL standings with two secured home finals, face a daunting task ahead.

In a joint statement, the suspended players expressed remorse and accepted the club's decision, acknowledging their failure to uphold the standards and values of the club.