The Grand Final Exception: A Matter of Fairness and Context The Lachie Neale controversy has brought into sharp focus the AFL's exceptional circumstances provision.
This provision allows for leniency in punishing players who have never been suspended before, but its application is being questioned due to Neale's recent actions.
Introduced by former Brisbane Lions CEO Greg Swann, this provision acknowledges the unique value of grand finals and the potential severity of suspensions during this time.