Geelong fined $140,000 over secret Jake Kolodjashnij concussion waiver
The Australian Football League (AFL) has fined the Geelong Football Club $140,000 for failing to disclose a secret concussion waiver included in player Jake Kolodjashnij's contract. AFL leadership has condemned the practice, stating that such waivers are unacceptable and would not be approved under current regulations.
Why it matters
This case highlights growing tensions and legal scrutiny regarding player safety and liability for head injuries in professional sports.
The AFL has fined Geelong over a deal the Cats made with Jake Kolodjashnij in 2024 which included what AFL chair Craig Drummond described as a ‘waiver’. Photograph: Morgan Hancock/AAP The AFL has fined Geelong over a deal the Cats made with Jake Kolodjashnij in 2024 which included what AFL chair Craig Drummond described as a ‘waiver’. Photograph: Morgan Hancock/AAP AFL Geelong fined $140,000 over secret Jake Kolodjashnij concussion waiver AFL sanctions Cats for failing to lodge variation to player’s contract
Andrew Dillon says league would not accept same deal lodged today
Prefer the Guardian on Google A schism has emerged at the top of the AFL over whether clubs can avoid future liability for head injuries, despite the league fining Geelong $140,000 for failing to lodge the concussion waiver signed by defender Jake Kolodjashnij.
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