The AFL have suspended Western Bulldogs star Bailey Smith for two matches after he was found guilty of "conduct unbecoming".
Smith has since apologised following videos and photos emerged on social media capturing him with an illicit substance, with the league starting an investigation into the matter.
The league confirmed on Thursday that Smith will be suspended for two matches and will receive a strike after breaching the league's player conduct guidelines and illicit drugs policy.
Smith's suspension will be added to his current ban for headbutting Geelong player Zach Tuohy in Round 12.
"The AFL confirms Western Bulldogs player Bailey Smith has been found guilty of conduct unbecoming and has been suspended for two matches," the statement reads.
"Content recently emerged on social media platforms, showing Smith using an illicit substance.
"The AFL interviewed Smith this week who admitted to illicit substance use in late 2021.
"The AFL found that Smith committed a breach of AFL Rule 2.3(a), which states; A Person must not engage in conduct which is unbecoming or likely to prejudice the interests or reputation of the AFL or to bring the game of football into disrepute.
"Smith's two match ban will commence after his current suspension for on-field conduct in Round 12 is served (by missing Rounds 14 and 15 following Western Bulldogs' bye in Round 13), meaning he will be unavailable for the Bulldogs' Round 16 and Round 17 games (and he will not be permitted to play VFL matches during that suspension). His conduct also constitutes a notifiable adverse finding under the AFL's Illicit Drugs Policy.
"The AFL wishes to reiterate that AFL Players are well-educated when it comes to the harms associated with the use of illicit substances, and have a responsibility to themselves, their clubs and their professional careers to uphold community expectations."
Western Bulldogs CEO Ameet Bains echoed the club's strict stance on Smith's behaviour, but credited the 21-year-old's response to the scandal.
“Bailey has shown clear contrition and remorse over recent days, and has spoken openly and maturely about his challenges,” Bains said in a club statement.
“As we have stated, we do not condone the behaviour in question and remain very disappointed it occurred.
“We are pleased however that Bailey has assumed unqualified responsibility for the mistake he has made and is intent on learning from it.
“We will continue to strongly support Bailey through this difficult period. Our primary responsibility to him and all of our players is to ensure that their health and wellbeing is safeguarded.”
Smith will now be able to return to playing duties in Round 18 against St Kilda.