Tom Craig: Australian hockey player gets 12-month ban after cocaine arrest

Australian Tom Craig has been given a 12-month hockey ban after being arrested on suspicion of buying cocaine at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Craig must serve half of the suspension, with the remaining six months suspended, “subject to compliance with conduct and behavior requirements.”

Hockey Australia said the ban came into effect on September 9 and the 29-year-old will be eligible for the 2025 national men’s squad, which will be announced later this year.

Craig was released without charge but was given a warning by a judge after French police arrested him for allegedly attempting to sell cocaine days after Australia lost their quarter-final in Paris.

“Craig must complete mandatory training and education programs as part of his sanction,” a statement from Hockey Australia said.

“Tom has had access to all athlete support services under our program and will continue to do so during his suspension. His well-being remains our priority.”

Craig admitted he had made “a terrible mistake” after his release and apologised to his family, friends, teammates and the Australian Olympic team.

Australia’s chief of mission Anna Meares said Craig was “a good person who made a bad decision”.

Craig has played over 100 international matches for Australia and helped them to silver at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics.