Carlton chief executive Graham Wright has confirmed the club noticed Elijah Hollands displaying unusual behavior during Thursday night’s match against Collingwood at the MCG. The team investigates why no immediate action followed as rumors circulate that the 23-year-old midfielder admitted to drinking beforehand.
Club’s Investigation and Response
Wright described Hollands’ issues as ‘unprecedented and complex’ while denying any reports Collingwood or the AFL. ‘I heard that report,’ he told reporters Sunday morning. ‘I haven’t heard anything from Collingwood or the AFL.’
The club does not suspect Hollands was under the influence of drugs or substances. Medical staff supports him, and he spends time with family. Wright confirmed Hollands will miss the Round 7 clash against Fremantle in Perth on Saturday. ‘He is okay,’ Wright added.
AFL Demands Review
The AFL requested Carlton’s review of Hollands’ fitness to play. ‘The health and wellbeing of every player is the AFL’s highest priority,’ the league stated. ‘The AFL has requested Carlton provide the outcome of its review once concluded and will continue inquiries.’
Veteran AFL journalist Caroline Wilson noted Collingwood players informed officials that Hollands confessed to pre-game drinking. ‘Sam Edmund said yesterday drugs were not involved. I am not sure where he got that information but I certainly can’t confirm that,’ Wilson said on 3AW. ‘Obviously, (he has) high anxiety and had a mental health episode.’ She added reports Collingwood players suggest alcohol involvement, though unproven.
Fan Footage Highlights Concerns
Supporter videos captured Hollands’ erratic movements in the forward 50 during the second half. Fans observed he ‘didn’t look like himself’ and displayed unusual gestures. Pre-game footage showed odd hand movements as he walked to the field.
One fan questioned: ‘[You’re] telling me none of his teammates or staff or coaches noticed he wasn’t right before the game?’ Another posted: ‘I’ve never seen anything like this. They better look after him now because he needs serious help.’ A third remarked: ‘This is so unfortunate considering he had a really good couple of games.’
Post-match details reveal staff monitored Hollands’ heart rate and noted sleep difficulties the night before.
Hollands’ Challenging Background
The midfielder battles prior mental health and alcohol issues. In 2025, he took personal leave multiple times, faced delisting despite contract time remaining, then earned a pre-season training invite. He returned via supplemental selection and featured in every game this season, averaging over 18 disposals.
Carlton, with a 1-5 record, faces Fremantle next on Anzac Day in Perth.
