The Carlton Football Club today confirms that after 12 years serving as a Director, including three as President, Luke Sayers has today informed the Board that he will step down from his role as President, effective immediately.
In relation to the matter involving President Luke Sayers’ social media account, the Club has continued to cooperate and liaise with the AFL Integrity Unit and since notifying the AFL Integrity Unit of the matter, has continued to connect with those involved, including individuals and corporate partners to provide ongoing care and support.
Alongside the conclusion of the AFL Integrity Unit inquiry, and in line with the Club's Workplace Integrity and Cultural Safety framework, the Club established a process led by Christopher Townshend KC, to ensure the Club gathered an informed and impartial understanding of the matter.
The Club respects the AFL Integrity Unit process, and in line with club policies, considered it appropriate to enact its own fair and due process, where independent oversight was important to support confidentiality of all involved and act in a manner that is genuine, fair and acknowledges the sensitivities of the matter to all persons affected.
The Club has now reviewed the AFL Integrity Unit’s findings, which based on the available evidence, declare that access to Mr Sayers’ X account was compromised, resulting in the posting of the image (i.e. by a person not being Mr Sayers) and tagging of another person.
Accordingly, the AFL has determined that Mr Sayers did not breach AFL Rules in connection with the posting of the image.
While considering all relevant details relating to the matter and despite no finding of wrongdoing via the AFL Integrity Unit and the Club’s independent process, in the best interests of the Club Sayers has made the decision to stand down from the Board and will continue to prioritise time with his family.
As President of the Carlton Football Club and in Sayers’ time as a Director prior, he has made an invaluable contribution, serving the Club with passion and dedication, which has left the Club in a significantly stronger position on and off the field.
“Leading the Carlton Football Club has been one of the great honours and privileges of my life,” Sayers said.
“I leave knowing the Club is in great shape, and with my deepest gratitude for its understanding and support.
“I deeply regret that many other people including my family, friends and colleagues and football club have been caught up in this matter,” he said.
Co Vice Presidents Robert Priestley and Patty Kinnersly thanked Sayers for his contribution to the Club, acknowledging his tenure over 12 years.
“On behalf of the entire Board of Directors, we would like to sincerely thank Luke for his significant service to the Club and for playing an integral role in setting the Club up for success and steering the Club in the strong position it now finds itself in.
Vice-Presidents Robert Priestley and Patty Kinnersly will jointly assume the role and responsibilities of President in an interim capacity, while the Board conducts the process of appointing a President in a permanent capacity.
The Club acknowledges the effect this matter has on individuals and the suffering that has been caused for those involved is deeply distressing, and the Club will continue to provide ongoing support and care to those impacted.
The Club now considers the matter closed and requests the privacy of impacted parties to be respected, mindful of the wellbeing consequence this matter has had on those involved.
The Club continues its focus on its preparations ahead of its respective AFL and AFLW seasons in 2025.
