Australian field hockey star Tom Craig has been dealt a significant blow to his career. The 29-year-old Olympian, who earned a silver medal at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, has been suspended for 12 months by Hockey Australia for attempting to purchase cocaine during the recent Paris Olympics.
The incident occurred on August 7th during a night out in Paris after Craig’s Olympic campaign ended. He was arrested by French authorities for attempting to purchase the drug but was subsequently released without charge after spending a night in custody. French prosecutors issued a statement confirming that Craig received a criminal warning and was released.
Following an investigation by Hockey Australia’s Integrity Unit, Craig has been handed a 12-month suspension. The first six months of the suspension will be served in full, while the remaining six months will be suspended, contingent upon Craig meeting specific conduct and behavioral requirements.
Despite the suspension, Craig remains eligible for selection to the 2025 national men’s squad, which is expected to be announced later this year. However, this suspension will undoubtedly impact his chances of making the team.
The Australian men’s hockey team finished sixth in the Paris Olympics, falling short of their medal ambitions. This incident adds another layer of disappointment for the team and Australian hockey fans alike.
Craig’s suspension serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of drug use within the sporting world. The incident raises questions about the pressures athletes face and the importance of support systems in helping them navigate these challenges.
This suspension will be a significant hurdle for Craig as he works to rebuild his reputation and re-establish himself as a top player in Australian hockey.
