Australian hockey player Tom Craig has been handed a 12-month suspension by Hockey Australia following his attempt to purchase cocaine at the Paris Olympics, CNN reports.
The sanction, effective from September 9, includes mandatory training and education programs, with six months fully served and the remaining six months suspended contingent upon Craig meeting conduct and behavioral requirements.
The 29-year-old, an experienced member of the national team with over 100 caps, was detained by French police last month after attempting to buy cocaine in central Paris. He was released with a criminal warning after appearing before a French judge.
“I’d firstly like to apologize for what has occurred in the past 24 hours,” Craig told reporters following his release. “I made a terrible mistake and I take full responsibility for my actions. My actions are my own, and by no way reflect the values of my family, my teammates, my friends, my sport and the Australian Olympic team. I’ve embarrassed you all, and I’m truly sorry.”
Craig’s suspension bars him from all Hockey Australia sanctioned matches, competitions, and events, including the upcoming Hockey One League and FIH Pro League seasons. However, he remains eligible for selection for the national team next year.
“During the suspension, Craig will be prohibited from playing in any match, competition, or event at any level sanctioned or organised by Hockey Australia,” a Hockey Australia statement read. “Craig’s welfare remains our priority.”
The suspension comes as a blow to Craig’s career and the Australian hockey team. He was a key member of the squad that won silver at the Tokyo Games, but Australia was knocked out in the quarterfinals at the Paris Olympics.
