AFLPA statement on Bombers’ appeal

The AFL Players Association has confirmed that all 34 banned Essendon players will appeal their suspensions to a Swiss court.

Read the full statement below:

“The AFL Players’ Association can confirm that all 34 current and past Essendon players have instructed lawyers to file an appeal against the CAS decision handed down on Tuesday 12^th January.

“The appeal papers will be lodged with the Swiss Federal Supreme Court later today.

“The players have decided to exercise their legal right to an appeal in an endeavour to clear their name and ensure that a just outcome is achieved.

“The decision to appeal was a decision for each individual player alone having regard for their own circumstances.

“The appeal has been made on the ground that the CAS erred in determining that the WADA appeal should be conducted as a de novo hearing.  That is, WADA should only have been allowed to appeal the unanimous decision of the AFL Anti-Doping Tribunal on grounds of either legal error or that it was grossly unreasonable.

“It’s important to note that the players have not sought an injunction to cause a stay of the CAS decision, meaning they will remain suspended until the Swiss Federal Supreme Court has considered and determined this matter. The appeal is not about an immediate return to football for the players involved, but rather it is about obtaining a just outcome and clearing their name.

“We expect to be advised by the Court on the next procedural steps, including key timings involved in the appeal process.”