MELBOURNE, Australia — Australian Rules Football umpire Leigh Haussen has been suspended after attending a post-season event in a costume resembling former Al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden.
The incident, which took place at a Melbourne restaurant in September following the AFL Grand Final, has sparked widespread criticism and a formal response from the Australian Football League, AFL.
Themed around “characters from the 2000s,” the event was intended to be a light-hearted end to the season for AFL umpires.
However, Haussen’s costume, which included a mask of bin Laden, was swiftly condemned by the league as “inappropriate, offensive, and in poor taste.”
According to the AFL’s statement, Haussen wore the mask briefly before removing it and has since expressed regret over his actions.
“I am sorry. I made an error of judgement. I never intended to offend anyone,” Haussen stated.
The umpire has cooperated fully with the league’s investigation, and, as part of the disciplinary action, he will not officiate during the opening round of the AFL’s 2025 season.
AFL Head of Umpiring Stephen McBurney acknowledged Haussen’s remorse, noting that the umpire has been reflective about the incident.
“Leigh understands the inappropriate nature of his costume,” McBurney said.
“He is a valued member of the umpiring group with an unblemished record.”
The league added that it would support Haussen in his return to the sport following the suspension, while underscoring the importance of respectful and inclusive conduct within the AFL community.
Haussen, who joined the AFL umpires list in 2017, has maintained an otherwise exemplary record throughout his career.
This incident serves as a reminder of the sensitivities surrounding public figures’ actions and the AFL’s commitment to fostering a respectful environment for players, officials, and fans alike.
