Carlton Football Club has been rocked by a major off-field controversy as head coach Michael Voss has been suspended amid allegations of sexual assault. The charges have sent shockwaves through the club and the wider AFL community, casting a shadow over Carlton’s preseason preparations for the 2025 season.
The club announced Voss’s suspension in an official statement, emphasizing the seriousness of the accusations and affirming its commitment to due process and respect for legal proceedings. “We are aware of the charges brought against Michael Voss and have taken the decision to suspend him from all coaching duties pending the outcome of the investigation,” the statement read. “The club is committed to creating a safe and respectful environment for all and will cooperate fully with the authorities.”
Voss, who took over as Carlton’s head coach in late 2021, has been instrumental in revitalizing the team’s performance, leading them to their first finals appearance in over a decade. His suspension comes at a crucial time as the club looks to build on last season’s momentum and aims for a stronger campaign in 2025.
The news has prompted mixed reactions from fans and AFL commentators, with some expressing shock and disappointment while others called for patience until more information emerges. Club sources indicate that assistant coach Ashley Hansen will step in as interim head coach, ensuring the team’s preseason training continues without major disruptions.
The AFL has also released a statement underscoring its zero-tolerance policy for conduct that undermines the integrity of the sport and pledged to monitor the situation closely.
The investigation is ongoing, and no further details have been released at this stage. Michael Voss has not yet made a public comment on the allegations.
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