Alastair Clarkson ‘is likely to be exonerated’ as AFL move to end racism probe
BREAKING NEWS: Alastair Clarkson ‘likely to be acquitted’ as AFL ends investigation into historical racism allegations against former Hawthorn coach and assistants Chris Fagan and Jason Burt
- Report allegations that Alastair Clarkson is likely to be acquitted
- Clarkson has been accused of historic racism at Hawthorn, which he denies
- Daily Mail Australia provides the latest international sports news
The independent investigation into Alastair Clarkson, Chris Fagan and Jason Burt is likely to exonerate the trio, with reports suggesting the AFL’s investigation will be terminated.
Clarkson stepped down from his North Melbourne coaching role on Thursday after the club confirmed the three-time premiership winner’s mental and physical health has been affected by an investigation into allegations of historic racism against him.
The investigation has lasted eight months and Clarkson – who denies the allegations – complained last week about the slow nature of the investigation.
But now The age reports that the AFL has moved to terminate the panel’s investigation, claiming they have concluded that Clarkson – plus former aides Fagan and Burt – have no case to answer based on the available evidence.
In making its decision, the AFL will consider the interests of First Nations players, their partners and Hawthorn before finalizing the process, which Gillon McLachlan described as ‘messy’.
Alastair Clarkson is likely to be cleared of an investigation into his historical conduct
Clarkson (L), Chris Fagan (R) and Jason Burt have denied accusations of racism at Hawthorn
The Kangaroos released a statement Thursday morning following the explosive development that Clarkson would be away from footy for some time.
“With immediate effect, North Melbourne Football Club senior coach Alastair Clarkson will be leaving the club to focus on his physical and emotional wellbeing,” the statement said.
“The club’s current assistant coach and former senior coach of the AFL, Brett Ratten, will assume the role of senior coach in the meantime.”
North Melbourne president Sonja Hood said the club is “fully supportive” of Clarkson.
“The club fully supports Alastair and we commend him for taking this important decision to put his health first,” said Hood.
“Everyone involved has been deeply affected by the Hawthorn investigation and the burden on Alastair has been significant.
The Age reports that the investigation by the AFL will be concluded in favor of the coaches
“We will give Alastair all the time he needs to recover and we look forward to welcoming him back when he is fully fit again.
“We have strong leaders at our club who will support and coach our team, while Alastair devotes time to his health.
“We are fortunate to have someone with Brett Ratten’s experience and ability to coach the team in the meantime.”