Cowan handed AFL suspension following illicit substance investigation

The AFL has suspended Carlton's Lachie Cowan for two matches following an investigation into his use of an illicit substance last weekend.

The league said "the circumstances in which the matter subsequently became public" were also the subject of the investigation.

Cowan was found guilty of conduct unbecoming.

He will be suspended for the first two home-and-away matches of the 2027 season and issued with a $5,000 fine.

Cowan will be required to undertake further education above the current mandated training on illicit substances and their effects.

The league said the matter would "constitute a notifiable adverse finding under the AFL's illicit drugs policy".

"AFL players have a responsibility to themselves and their professional careers to uphold community expectations," AFL chief operating officer Tom Harley said in a league statement.

"They are well-educated when it comes to the harms associated with the use of illicit substances.

"Lachlan admitted his mistake and understands he must be accountable for his actions."