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2mo ago

Suns Keep Team Manager in Role During AFL Betting Probe

The investigation focuses on his reported ties to bookmaker Okebet.

Damien Hardwick was far from happy with the line of questioning at a Darwin press conference. (AAP PHOTOS)
Okebet co-founder and Suns team manager Mark Opie (and coach Damien Hardwick (Image: Zennie/Private Media)
AFL coach looking on at ground level with a stern expression

Overview

  • Gold Coast coach Damien Hardwick, speaking Thursday in Darwin, said team manager Mark Opie will stay in his match-day role while the AFL integrity unit investigates.
  • AFL chief executive Andrew Dillon said the integrity unit is working with the Suns and promised further updates as the review continues.
  • The complaint follows reporting that lists Opie as a co-founder of bookmaker Okebet, which the Victorian regulator fined $100,000 in 2024 for offering illegal inducements to open betting accounts.
  • Pressed on conflict concerns, Hardwick pointed to the league’s gambling sponsors and said any off-field decisions about staff should sit with club management.
  • Gambling ties across the AFL are under fresh scrutiny this season, with umpire Nick Foot ending a Sportsbet role and former players Luke Hodge and Kane Cornes leaving the All-Australian panel over betting links.