AFL Umpire Leigh Haussen Suspended for Offensive Osama Bin Laden Costume at Party
AFL umpire Leigh Haussen received a one-week suspension for wearing an Osama Bin Laden costume at a private end-of-season party. The league condemned the outfit as "inappropriate and offensive." Haussen apologized and acknowledged his mistake, while AFL umpiring chief Stephen McBurney emphasized his value as a long-standing umpire. Haussen will address the officiating group upon their return to training.
AFL umpire Leigh Haussen has received a one-week suspension to begin the 2025 season due to an incident involving an inappropriate costume at a recent end-of-season gathering. This decision follows his admission about wearing a costume described by the league as offensive during a private event in Melbourne.
Incident Details Surrounding the Costume Choice
Leigh Haussen attended an umpires' party after the grand final, where he donned what the AFL has characterized as an inappropriate and offensive outfit. The league clarified that the costume, which represented Osama Bin Laden, was worn only for a brief moment, as Haussen changed into it at the venue and removed the mask shortly thereafter. The event took place in a private room within a Melbourne restaurant, emphasizing its exclusivity and the private nature of the gathering.
AFL's Response and Investigation Outcome
Following the incident, which surfaced amid scrutiny from a recent scandal involving the GWS Giants, the AFL confirmed that no skits were performed at the umpires' party, distinguishing it from the previous controversy. The league stated that Haussen fully cooperated with the subsequent investigation after being alerted to the costumes worn at the gathering. He expressed remorse for his actions, referring to them as inappropriate and offensive, while acknowledging his lack of intention to hurt anyone.
Statements from AFL Officials and Haussen
In an official remarks, Haussen reflected on his actions, stating that he regretted his poor judgment but never meant to offend anyone. AFL umpiring chief Stephen McBurney supported Haussen's reflections, indicating that the umpire is aware of the inappropriate nature of his costume choice. McBurney affirmed Haussen’s value to the umpiring group, highlighting his exemplary track record since joining the AFL umpires list in 2017. He assured that Haussen would receive support as he returns to officiating AFL matches following his suspension.
