Telstra suspends Swans players from brand ambassador program
The telco said it was “deeply concerned” by the allegations and would make final decisions on its sponsorships once the police investigation was complete.
The Sydney Swans have banned five players for the remainder of the 2026 AFL season following a police investigation into an alleged sexual assault at the Pullman Hotel. The five players - Riley Bice, Nick Blakey, Isaac Heeney, James Jordon and Chad Warner - were suspended earlier today by the club for breaching club rules. The players were reportedly staying at the hotel after a win over Essendon on Sunday night when the incident allegedly occurred.
None of the players have been formally interviewed by police or charged. The Australian Football League (AFL) has confirmed the players will not be considered for selection in the 2026 All Australian squad. The club's decision to suspend the players is separate from the police investigation. Telstra, one of the club's sponsors, expressed deep concern over the allegations and supported the club's stance.
Other sponsors, QBE and realestate.com.au, also came out in support of the club's actions. The Swans' chairman and CEO stressed that the sanctions were a response to breaches of the club's standards and expected behavior, and were not influenced by the outcome of the football season or an ongoing police investigation.
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