Richmond star Jack Riewoldt says he's encouraged by the reports circling around the Colin Carter report and AFL expansion into Tasmania.
The Carter review will reportedly recommend three options for an AFL team in Tasmania – a 19th licence, a relocated AFL team, or a joint venture with an existing AFL club.
The Mercury understands that the Carter report has recommended the Apple Isle should have representation in both the AFL and AFLW.
“It’s probably the caveat that’s been put on the 19th licence, is not while the pandemic is going on,” Riewoldt told SEN Hobart.
“Clearly that’s had a massive financial impact on not only the AFL, but nearly every organisation – sport and not sport – in the country and all over the world.
“I’m really buoyant about what’s been said here.
“The commentary around Tasmania in terms of its viability to have an actual team and be able to fund it, it’s proven that there is clearly a plan in place.
“And credit to the taskforce that put the business review forward. Clearly it’s shone brightly on Colin Carter and the process he went through.”
Channel Seven reported on Thursday night that the Tasmania report recommends a joint venture with an existing AFL team.
Riewoldt, who was born and raised in Hobart, is firmly against the idea.
“I feel like that is just tokenism if they do that. It’s not the way forward for Tassie footy,” the triple premiership Tiger said.
“I’m certainly of the belief that I don’t think a relocated team would work and I don’t think a joint venture (would work).
“Hawthorn and North Melbourne play four games at either end of the state. Whilst it’s great to have AFL football in Tasmania, I think the 19th licence is certainly the one – and the main driver in this has been premier Peter Gutwein.
“I think he sees this as his legacy piece.”
The Carter report will be officially released on Friday.