Carlton Football Club has confirmed it has suspended defender Wade Derksen with immediate effect after he was charged with drink driving.
The 25-year-old was hit with criminal charges last month after allegedly giving a failed breath test reading after being pulled over driving in Jabiru.
Derksen is due to face court over the allegations next month after being charged with driving while under the influence of alcohol.
But in a statement issued on Friday, his club confirmed he will miss the first three games of the 2027 as part of the club’s internal response to the allegations.
“While we acknowledge the upcoming legal process will carry its own penalty, Wade’s conduct falls well below the standards we expect,” Carlton General Manager of Football Chris Davies said.
“Wade is fully aware how disappointed we are in what occurred.
“We will continue to support him throughout this period as he takes full responsibility for his actions.”
The club went on to confirm Derksen has agreed to complete counselling following the incident and has apologised.
“I want to express how sorry I am for what I did,” he said.
“The choice I made to get behind the wheel that day was unacceptable and is a moment I deeply regret. I have let a lot of people down and for that I apologise.”
Dersken is due to appear in court next month.