Cowan handed AFL suspension following illicit substance investigation

Key points

• The AFL has suspended Carlton player Lachie Cowan for the first two home-and-away matches of the 2027 season. The league found him guilty of conduct unbecoming after an investigation into his use of an illicit substance last weekend.
• Cowan has also been fined $5,000 and must complete further education on illicit substances. In a statement, Cowan apologised to his family and the club and called the incident a wake-up call.
• The AFL has also confirmed a new illicit drugs policy will take effect in January, with all players hair tested on their return to training.