Australian Rules umpire suspended after dressing up as Osama bin Laden at party

Australian Rules football umpire Leigh Haussen has been suspended for dressing as Osama bin Laden at a post-season event, the Australian Football League (AFL) confirmed in a statement. The controversial incident took place at an umpires’ party in Melbourne, held in September after the AFL Grand Final.

According to the AFL, the party’s theme was “characters from the 2000s.” Haussen attended the event in a costume representing the former Al-Qaeda leader, Osama bin Laden. The league clarified that Haussen wore a mask for a brief period before removing it, and no skits or performances were involved in the event.

While the incident occurred in a private setting, the AFL condemned Haussen’s costume as “inappropriate, offensive, and in poor taste.” As a result, Haussen has been suspended from officiating during the opening round of the 2025 AFL season.

In response, Haussen expressed regret for his actions, acknowledging the mistake and clarifying that there was no intention to offend anyone. “I am sorry. I made an error of judgement. I never intended to offend anyone,” he said.

The AFL also included a statement from Stephen McBurney, the head of umpiring, who emphasized that Haussen had accepted responsibility for his actions. “Leigh understands the inappropriate nature of his costume,” McBurney said. “He has reflected on that choice. Leigh is a valued member of the umpiring group with an unblemished record both throughout his umpiring career and since his elevation to the AFL umpires list in 2017.”

Despite the suspension, McBurney noted that the AFL would support Haussen as he returns to officiating after his penalty. “We will support Leigh to make his return to umpiring AFL football following this suspension,” he added.

Haussen, who has been a part of the AFL umpiring group since 2017, has built a strong reputation throughout his career. However, this incident has raised questions about the appropriateness of such costumes, particularly given their association with a figure linked to significant global tragedy.

The AFL’s decision to suspend Haussen reflects the growing sensitivity around cultural and political issues, particularly in the context of public figures or events. While the umpire’s apology may signal remorse, the incident underscores the importance of maintaining respect and awareness when participating in public or professional events.

The AFL has not yet specified whether the suspension will be extended or if any additional disciplinary actions will be taken, but Haussen’s case serves as a reminder of the fine line between personal expression and public responsibility.

This suspension highlights the AFL’s commitment to ensuring that all members of its community, including officials and players, adhere to standards of conduct that reflect the values of respect and inclusion. The league has reinforced that such actions, regardless of context or intent, have consequences that extend beyond personal or social circles.

As Haussen reflects on the fallout from his costume choice, the AFL will undoubtedly continue to scrutinize actions that may undermine its reputation or the integrity of the game. The league’s swift response to this incident, and the clear message about the importance of accountability, sets a precedent for how it handles sensitive matters involving its officials.