# Cowan suspended for two matches over illicit substance

> Carlton's Lachie Cowan banned from the opening two home-and-away matches of 2027 after an investigation into his use of an illicit substance.
- Title: Cowan suspended for two matches over illicit substance · Abc
- Summary: Carlton's Lachie Cowan banned from the opening two home-and-away matches of 2027 after an investigation into his use of an illicit substance. AFL suspended…
- Keywords: breaking, lachie cowan, carlton blues, afl, suspension, illicit substances, 2027 season, news, politics, Cowan, suspended, two
- Source: Abc — https://abc.net.au/news/2026-10-16/afl-carlton-blues-lachie-cowan-suspended-two-matches/107273686
- Published: 2026-10-15T23:32:29+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: breaking, lachie cowan, carlton blues, afl, suspension, illicit substances, 2027 season, news, politics
## Cowan suspended for two matches
The AFL has suspended Carlton player Lachie Cowan for two matches following an investigation into his use of an illicit substance last weekend.
## Guilty of conduct unbecoming
Cowan was found guilty of conduct unbecoming. He will miss the first two home and away matches of the twenty twenty-seven season and receive a five thousand dollar fine.
## Cowan apologises for his actions
Cowan said he should not have put himself in such a vulnerable situation. He apologised for the impact his actions had on his family and the football club.

> This is a wake-up call and I am just so grateful to now be in a position to learn from this.
## Players' union criticises disclosure
The AFL Players' Association said private information about players seeking medical treatment was unacceptably shared. Chief executive James Gallagher warned the suspension could discourage players from seeking emergency medical assistance.

> That is unacceptable.
## New drug testing policy begins January
The AFL confirmed its new illicit drugs policy takes effect in January. All players will be hair tested upon return to training, with readings going back three to six months prior.
## Cowan must undertake further education
Cowan will be required to undertake further education above the current mandated training on illicit substances and their effects. The matter constitutes a notifiable adverse finding under the AFL's illicit drugs policy.
## Key takeaway

AFL suspended Carlton player Lachie Cowan for two matches and fined him five thousand dollars following an investigation into illicit substance use.