Breaking: AFL hits Geelong with monster fine over concussion waiver scandal

The Australian Football League (AFL) has imposed a significant fine of $140,000 on Geelong for failing to notify the league about a concussion waiver in the contract of player Jake Kolodjashnij. This penalty consists of $100,000 and a suspended charge of $40,000, which was levied in October following an investigation into the club's third-party agreements. The funds will be directed towards the AFL and AFLPA Players' Injury and Support Fund.

The Australian Football League (AFL) engaged James Peters KC to investigate Geelong after the league issued a "please explain" request following the disclosure about Kolodjashnij's contract. The investigation led by Mr. Peters concluded that Geelong's failure to submit the variation was an oversight. Kolodjashnij, a 2022 Cats premiership defender, returned to training this week after playing his last game due to the story breaking.

The review by the AFL found that Geelong had thoroughly considered the risks associated with Kolodjashnij continuing to play after several concussions. They consulted with the AFL, club doctors, lawyers, insurers, and Kolodjashnij and his family. The investigation found that there was no inappropriate conduct warranting further action under AFL Rules by Geelong or its representatives, and there were no adverse findings regarding the club's decision to enter a contract with the player to reduce its legal exposure. Additionally, it was determined that Kolodjashnij was not coerced into signing the waiver.

Geelong CEO Steve Hocking had previously defended the agreement, stating that there wasn't much the club could have done differently in handling the situation. The Cats had entered a deal with Kolodjashnij in 2024, requiring him to assume all legal responsibility for future brain trauma, enabling him to continue playing for the club.

During the weekend, Geelong president Grant McCabe referred to the agreement as a "voluntary assumption of risk," emphasizing the extensive consultation that took place, including with AFL officials. This revelation put pressure on Hocking and the current AFL chairman, Craig Drummond, who was Geelong's president when the waiver was signed.