Australian hockey player Tom Craig issued a public apology on Wednesday after being detained by police in central Paris for attempting to purchase cocaine. Craig expressed remorse for his actions, acknowledging that he had made a serious mistake and taking full responsibility for his behavior. He emphasized that his actions were his own and did not align with the values of his family, teammates, friends, sport, or the Australian Olympic team.
Following his release from the police station, the 28-year-old Olympian addressed reporters and expressed his deep regret for the incident. He admitted to embarrassing those close to him and extended a sincere apology for his actions.
Craig appeared before a French judge on Wednesday and was subsequently released with a criminal warning, as confirmed by Paris prosecutors. Australian team chief Anna Meares expressed relief that the matter had been resolved without charges or convictions against Craig.
In response to the incident, Craig has vacated the Olympic village and forfeited all remaining privileges associated with his participation in the Games. Meares emphasized that while Craig is a good person who made a regrettable decision, there are consequences for such actions.
Australia hockey team director Bernard Savage highlighted that the team's primary concern is Craig's wellbeing. He noted that Craig is receiving support from his family and reiterated that his behavior was not indicative of his true character or that of Hockey Australia or the Kookaburras.
