Australian hockey player Tom Craig has been handed a 12-month suspension by Hockey Australia after attempting to buy cocaine during the Paris 2024 Olympics.
The governing body confirmed the decision in a statement, noting that the suspension began on September 9.
Craig is also required to complete “mandatory training and education programs” as part of the sanction.
The punishment involves a six-month full suspension, while the remaining six months will be suspended, contingent on Craig meeting specific conduct and behavioral standards during the probationary period.
While suspended, Craig is barred from participating in any matches, competitions, or events under the jurisdiction of Hockey Australia, including the Hockey One League and FIH Pro League seasons.
Despite the sanction, Craig remains eligible for national team selection in 2025, with Hockey Australia emphasizing its commitment to his well-being during this challenging time.
In a statement, they reiterated that his welfare “remains our priority.”
The incident occurred in August when French authorities detained Craig for attempting to purchase cocaine in Paris.
He appeared before a French judge and received a criminal warning before being released. French prosecutors confirmed his release at the time.
Following his release from custody, Craig issued a public apology. “I’d firstly like to apologize for what has occurred in the past 24 hours,” Craig told reporters. “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.”
At 29, Craig is a veteran of the Australian national hockey team, having represented his country over 100 times.
He was a key player in Australia’s silver-medal-winning squad at the Tokyo Olympics. However, at the Paris Games, Australia’s campaign ended prematurely, with the team being knocked out in the quarterfinals.
