Sydney Swans defender Riley Bice was cleared by Victoria Police in the investigation into an alleged sexual assault at Melbourne’s Pullman Hotel on August 17, 2026, but remains stood down from the club for the rest of the AFL season. Four other players were formally interviewed by police, who confirmed they have identified all parties involved and are not seeking further individuals.
Police Clear Bice, but Club Maintains Suspension
Riley Bice, a Sydney Swans defender, was cleared as a suspect in the alleged sexual assault of three women at Melbourne’s Pullman Hotel last month, but will remain stood down by the club for the rest of the AFL season. Victoria Police’s Sexual Crimes Squad confirmed they have identified all individuals present during the incident, including three alleged victims and three witnesses, and are not seeking any additional parties. The club’s coach, Dean Cox, reiterated that Bice is now being treated as a key witness, not a suspect, but emphasized that the five players involved will remain suspended until the process may take some time to run its course.
Club Stands by Players, but Uncertainty Lingers
Cox confirmed the five suspended players are receiving legal advice, with at least three law firms reportedly engaged to represent them. He emphasized that the club’s focus remains on the players’ wellbeing, stating, My first part of the conversation has only been about how they’re going. I haven’t touched on anything to do with the investigation and that’s the best way to go forward.
The coach also declined to speculate on when the players might return to the team, saying, That changes daily… we’re unsure about what the nature of it looks like.
The Swans have faced scrutiny over the incident, which occurred after a win against Essendon in Melbourne. The club had initially stood all five players down for breaching standards after they partied into the early hours. While no charges have been laid, police have not ruled out further action. Cox reiterated that the club will continue to have those conversations internally
to balance the needs of the team with support for the players. There is an investigation still going and we need to get all the facts before anyone makes any assumptions,
he said.
What’s Next for the Swans and the Investigation?
Police have indicated the investigation may take months to conclude, with no major updates expected for at least two months. The Swans are preparing for Saturday’s elimination final against the Brisbane Lions at the SCG, but it remains unclear whether the suspended players will attend. Cox stated, We’ll continue to have those conversations internally and get the best balance between what the footy club needs and also the support of those players.
However, the Swans have maintained their focus on the upcoming finals, vowing to become a better football club
in the wake of the controversy. As the investigation progresses, the club’s next steps—and the potential return of the suspended players—will remain under close scrutiny.
