The AFL has slapped Melbourne Demons player Joel Smith with a ban of four years and three months over his drug scandal.

Smith will not be allowed to participate in any sport aligned with the World Anti-Doping Code until January 9, 2028, effectively rendering the 28-year-old’s AFL career over.

Smith was found guilty of a range of drug-related offences, including the presence and possession of cocaine as well as the trafficking of cocaine, between 2020 and 2023.

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In an in-competition test following Melbourne’s clash in round 23 of the 2023 season, cocaine was detected in Smith’s system.

The ban of four years and three months was agreed to by the AFL, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and Sport Integrity Australia (SIA).

The Demons utility was hit with a provisional suspension in October last year.

AFL chief executive Andrew Dillon said the ruling on Smith underlined the league’s hardline stance on drugs.

“The outcome in this matter, in which Joel Smith has been suspended for more than four years, reflects the seriousness with which the AFL treats breaches of the Australian Football Anti-Doping Code and is a salutary lesson for any player using illicit substances that are prohibited under the WADA Code”, Dillon said.

“The use of performance-enhancing substances is strictly prohibited in Australian football and the AFL will continue to work with Sport Integrity Australia to identify and prosecute the use of such substances in competition and other conduct prohibited by the Australian Football Anti-Doping Code.

“The AFL does not in any way condone the use of illicit drugs.

“If a player chooses to use illicit drugs, the potential consequences are substantial, including risks to health and safety and of losing the privilege of playing professional football, as has occurred here.”