Harley Bennell has been banned for four games and Melbourne fined $50,000 after the midfielder broke COVID protocols.
Bennell, who didn’t play in the side’s season-ending win over Essendon on Sunday, reportedly partook in a drinking session on Saturday night outside the club’s hub in Queensland.
The 27-year-old still remains unsigned beyond 2020 but will be forced to serve that ban next season if he’s still at the club.
The $50,000 fine will be included in Melbourne's 2021 soft cap due to a previous breach by two players and Bennell will leave Queensland immediately due to the sanction.
Melbourne CEO Gary Pert said Bennell made a "selfish" and "very poor" decision which put the completion of the 2020 season at risk.
“This is a selfish act by Harley, and a clear breach of the AFL’s protocols,” he said in a statement.
“He has made a very poor decision, which is incredibly disappointing. He has not only put himself, his teammates and the competition at risk, but he has failed to live up to the values of the Melbourne Football Club.
“On behalf of the Melbourne Football Club, I sincerely apologise to the AFL and the Queensland Government for the embarrassment and harm that this incident has caused.
“Harley knew the rules. He understands the extent of his actions and is incredibly remorseful for his behaviour. He has made a terrible mistake and has been punished accordingly.
“As a Club, we accept the punishment and fines handed down as a result of this breach.
“Our responsibility now is to ensure we support Harley and his family, during what is a very challenging period for them."
Melbourne's season ended on Sunday night after Western Bulldogs beat Fremantle, meaning they finish this year in 9th place.
The harsh penalty reflects the seriousness in which the AFL is treating any breaches, with the League on the cusp of embarking on a finals series which will culminate in the Grand Final at the Gabba on October.
Bennell joined Melbourne this season after he was delisted by Fremantle at the end of 2019.