Kane Cornes has revealed why he chose to step down from his role as an AFL All-Australian selector and Rising Star judge.
The AFL analyst had a decision to make after Sportsbet’s policy change around talent from any code aligned with official roles.
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As a member of the All-Australian selection panel Cornes was able to vote on the Rising Star award, which can be bet on with Sportsbet and is therefore a conflict of interest.
Cornes has chosen to remain working with the bookmaker, who this week cut ties with AFL field umpire Nick Foot, with the policy tweak coming to light after Foot’s involvement in the Zak Butters tribunal saga.
Port Adelaide star Butters was alleged to have questioned Foot’s integrity as an umpire, with the grand final whistleblower previously holding a dual role as a horse racing betting analyst.
But rather than split from Sportsbet – the sole wagering partner of the AFL – Cornes has elected to keep his role, where he appears on AFL programs to offer insights, and instead give up his prestigious position with the league.
Appearing on Channel 7’s The Agenda Setters, he was asked to explain his decision by Caroline Wilson.
“I’ve got an existing contract with Sportsbet that I want to honour,” said Cornes.
“I could have walked away from it, no doubt, but I would have been breaking a contract – I don’t have the same contract at the AFL.
“I really love the work with Sportsbet. They’re a major partner of everything I do. Every show I’m on, Sportsbet are thankfully a major partner.”
Asked if he think he had a conflict of interest, he answered: “Yeah I do.
“Now the Nick Foot situation has happened and they made that stance and changed their policy, there was no other option but to take the action they did.
“I’ve spoken to the AFL, they were incredibly supportive. I thank them for the opportunity, it was brilliant being in the All-Australian room.”
Cornes had been on the panel of selectors – which had already undergone three changes since last year – since 2022.
Former AFL champions Luke Hodge, David Mundy and Joel Selwood were added to the panel ahead of this season, replacing the departed Nathan Buckley, Matthew Pavlich and Josh Mahoney.
Meanwhile Foot spoke highly of Sportsbet despite the huge betting firm ending the controversial association.
“My time with the Get On racing team is something I’ll always value,” he said.
“Broadcasting racing, working alongside close mates, and interviewing the people who make the industry tick has been a genuine highlight.
“I’m a proud horse racing and umpiring person and continue to share a passion for both.
“Playing a small part in the AFL is a privilege, and I look forward to continuing to serve the game with professionalism in my role for years to come.”
Cornes’ decision means he will continue his role on the Sportsbet-produced podcast “In The Back Pocket”, which airs on Thursdays.
