UPDATE: The Geelong Cats are under intense scrutiny following their Mad Monday celebrations, as the AFL has expressed dissatisfaction with players’ costumes and social media posts. This urgent situation has escalated after star midfielder Bailey Smith shared controversial images from the event, which took place after Geelong’s significant 47-point loss to Brisbane in the grand final.
Smith’s costume, inspired by the character Tristan Ludlow from the movie Legends of the Fall, alongside captain Patrick Dangerfield‘s cowboy outfit referencing the show Yellowstone, drew immediate backlash. Adding fuel to the fire, Smith’s caption referencing the film Brokeback Mountain has sparked outrage among fans and former players alike. In a post, he quipped, “this is what losing a granny does to ya,” prompting former West Coast defender Mitch Brown—the first openly bisexual AFL player—to respond critically on Instagram: “In all seriousness though, guys do better. Last time I checked, losing a grand final doesn’t make you gay, but being homophobic definitely makes you a loser.”
The AFL’s football performance boss, Greg Swann, confirmed that the league is not pleased with the situation but will allow the Geelong Cats to handle the fallout. “We have spoken to Geelong and had a chat to (chief executive) Steve Hocking. They’re actually dealing with it,” Swann stated. “We’re not thrilled, obviously, with what happened – and nor are Geelong.”
Swann indicated that the Cats would be addressing the matter later today, stating, “So they’re going to take some steps. I think there’ll be something coming out this afternoon around that.” Authorities are keen to see how Geelong manages the situation, especially after similar incidents last year involving GWS players resulted in suspensions and fines for inappropriate behavior.
As the Cats scramble to manage their players and the backlash, Swann noted the challenges they face in rounding up the team. “It’s hard to find people and they’ve all disappeared,” he said, indicating ongoing efforts to mitigate the fallout.
The AFL prefers that clubs address player conduct internally, with Swann emphasizing that the league will intervene only if necessary. “You might see that change. As I said, I think these are club issues. I’m not sure why the AFL would step in,” he added.
This developing story has captured the attention of fans and critics alike, and many are waiting to see what actions the Geelong Cats will take in response to the escalating controversy. With calls for accountability growing louder, the spotlight remains on the Cats as they navigate this sensitive situation.
Stay tuned for updates as Geelong prepares to release their official response later today.
