{
  "id": 2919412,
  "title": "Live: AFL boss says suspended Swans won't be invited to Brownlow ceremony",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/24/live-afl-boss-says-suspended-swans-wont-be-invited-to-brownlow",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-08-24T02:00:54.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "ABC News",
    "slug": "abc-news",
    "url": "https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-08-24/afl-sydney-swans-scandal-andrew-dillon/107070342"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "AFL chief executive Andrew Dillon addressed the press regarding the suspension of five Sydney Swans players. He stated that the suspended players are still eligible to receive votes for the Brownlow medal ceremony invitation. Dillon clarified that the statement made by the AFL on Tuesday was strong and that this time is appropriate for the AFL to speak on the matter. He also spoke about the investigation into Geelong football club for making a deal with a player with a history of concussions, and the independent KC is expected to provide his report this week. Dillon emphasized that the AFL stands for respect for women and reiterated their commitment to creating an inclusive environment. He dismissed the idea of a culture problem within the AFL, stating that the actions of a few do not define the entire organization. Regarding the alleged drug use by the players, Dillon reiterated the AFL's policy of not investigating until after the police investigation is concluded. He acknowledged the serious police investigation underway and confirmed that the five players have been stood down by the club for breaching their standards on drinking and staying out late. The Sydney Swans have confirmed that no staff member is involved in the investigation, and that the club supports the actions taken by Victoria Police.",
  "summary": "AFL boss Andrew Dillon is fronting the press over the league's handling of the Sydney Swans scandal in Melbourne.",
  "key_points": [
    "AFL CEO Andrew Dillon addressed suspension of Swans players",
    "Players still eligible for Brownlow votes, despite suspension",
    "Investigation into Geelong club's concussion deal ongoing"
  ],
  "editors_take": "The AFL's decision to keep suspended players eligible for Brownlow medal votes but not the ceremony subtly shifts the balance between punishment and recognition, affecting the Sydney Swans and league reputation.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 3,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "The Sydney Morning Herald",
        "title": "Five Swans players banned from attending Brownlow",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/24/five-swans-players-banned-from-attending-brownlow",
        "published": "2026-08-24T02:39:12.000Z"
      },
      {
        "outlet": "The Age",
        "title": "Five Swans players banned from attending Brownlow",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/24/five-swans-players-banned-from-attending-brownlow-2926610",
        "published": "2026-08-24T02:39:12.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}