Carlton defender Lachie Cowan has been suspended for the first two games of the 2027 home-and-away season after being sanctioned by the AFL for conduct unbecoming.

The AFL has also issued Cowan with a $5,000 suspended fine and the requirement to complete further education relating to the effects of illicit substances.

“I should never have put myself in such a vulnerable situation, I want to apologise for the impact my actions have had on my family and the football club,” Cowan said.

“I also want to thank the medical professionals who helped me on the night, the football club for their ongoing support and everyone who took the time to reach out and make sure I was okay.

“This is a wake-up call and I am just so grateful to now be in a position to learn from this.”

The Club has worked in consultation with the AFL throughout this process, while continuing to provide Cowan with wellbeing support.

“Most importantly we are thankful that Lachie is okay and received the medical attention he needed,” Carlton General Manager of Football Chris Davies said.

“We have been in regular contact with Lachie this week and he has taken ownership of his mistake.

“Lachie understands that it is his responsibility to ensure he makes better decisions moving forward.”