Luke Sayers has resigned as Carlton president despite an Australian Football League (AFL) investigation finding his X account was hacked and he was not responsible for posting a lewd image. The incident, which occurred on January 8, triggered public scrutiny and led to Sayers’ decision to step down, citing the impact on his family, colleagues, and the club.
“I deeply regret that many other people, including my family, friends, and colleagues, have been caught up in this matter,” Sayers said in a statement. "This decision draws a line in the sand."
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The controversial post, which also tagged an executive from Bupa- a key sponsor of Carlton’s "Respects" program promoting gender equality - was deleted within 13 minutes. While Bupa pulled its sponsorship of a planned event, it remains a major club partner. Sayers, who was vacationing in Italy at the time, apologised and deactivated his account, stating the post was unauthorised.
The AFL integrity unit concluded that Sayers’ account had been compromised, with the league confirming that an unauthorised user had gained access. “The integrity unit's inquiries... have found, based on the available evidence, that access to Mr. Sayers’ X account was compromised,” the AFL said.
Sayers expressed frustration over speculation surrounding the post. “I am aware of speculation that the naming of another person in the post explains why it happened. It does not, and that narrative is wrong,” he clarified.
Carlton vice-presidents Robert Priestley and Patty Kinnersly will share presidential duties while the board seeks a permanent replacement. Sayers’ 12-year tenure, including three as president, was marked by significant contributions, according to a club statement.
Sayers also announced a leave of absence from his role as executive chairperson of the Sayers Group. CEO Sammy Kumar reassured clients, stating that the firm's management structure ensures continuity.
The AFL emphasised the importance of respect and responsibility, acknowledging the distress caused to various individuals. Sayers remains in Italy with his family and intends to step away from public life to resolve the matter privately.
