A new policy introduced by Sportsbet has intensified scrutiny around gambling ties within the Australian Football League.
Sportsbet has decided to remove all current athletes from their advertising and promotions after they were criticized for having AFL referee Nick Foot in their horse racing coverage.
The change has already affected many figures in the AFL. Former footy player Kane Cornes recently resigned from his position as an AFL All-Australian selector so that he can continue working with Sportsbet.
The new policy has also raised questions regarding the status of AFLW commentator Kate McCarthy, who has worked with Sportsbet while being a member of some AFL awards panels, including as a member of last year’s Norm Smith Medal judging panel.
Former Brisbane captain Luke Hodge also faced the same level of scrutiny as a result of him being an All-Australian Selector, while also currently working with Sportsbet.
With this backdrop, there has been a call for clear rules around the relationship between betting companies and people in an official capacity with the AFL. Former Collingwood President, Eddie McGuire stated that the AFL should restrict individuals who receive remuneration from betting businesses from participating in award-related functions and betting-related operations of the AFL.
This controversy comes at a time when there is also an increasing amount of concern regarding gambling’s influence on Australian sports and media.
