The AFL wishes to advise that North Melbourne Senior Coach Alastair Clarkson has been found guilty of breaching AFL Rule 2.3(a) (Conduct Unbecoming) in relation to an incident during the quarter time break in the AAMI Community Series match between North Melbourne and St Kilda.

Clarkson has been sanctioned $20,000 and has received a two-match wholly suspended sentence, meaning that if Clarkson again breaches AFL Rule 2.3(a) before the end of the 2025 Toyota AFL Premiership season, he would immediately be suspended from coaching for two matches, plus any additional sanction for the further breach.

Clarkson will also be required to attend appropriate Pride in Sport training as approved by the AFL.

The $20,000 fine will not be included in the North Melbourne Football Club Soft Cap.

In determining the sanction, the AFL took into account Clarkson’s apology and acknowledgement that his conduct was inappropriate and unnecessary and his desire to seek help to develop strategies to manage his behaviour.

AFL General Counsel Stephen Meade said, “Alastair’s conduct does not represent behaviour acceptable to anyone in our game and not what is expected of a Senior Coach, especially someone of Alastair’s experience.

“While we understand there are emotions attached to the heat of the contest, engaging with an opposition player during the quarter time break and then using language that is both unacceptable and highly inappropriate is something the AFL does not want in the game.”

The AFL acknowledges Clarkson’s apology and contrition over his comments and his and North Melbourne’s cooperation in resolving the matter.

The two-match suspended sanction will be in play until the end of the 2025 Toyota AFL Premiership season.