West Coast Eagles star Willie Rioli has allegedly been caught in possession of cannabis in the Northern Territory.
Three months before the forward was set to return to football, Rioli will face a Darwin court on Wednesday charged with possessing a schedule 2 dangerous drug, less than traffickable quantity, in a public place.
A Northern Territory Police media release from April 23 said a drug detection dog was conducting screening operations at Darwin Airport when 25 grams of cannabis was allegedly found in a man's pants.
The ABC understands Rioli was then issued with a notice to appear in court on May 12.
The AFL is aware of the charge but a spokesperson told the ABC it has nothing to add.
Rioli's career in doubt
West Coast Eagles Football Club says it will support Rioli through the court process, but doubt has been cast over the forward's return to the team.
At a press conference in Perth this afternoon, club general manager, Craig Vozzo said, "there is a risk of [his career ending]."
"We've got to make a balanced decision after getting all of the information, letting the court process take its course, finding out where that lands and then consulting with key stakeholders."
Mr Vozzo said the club had only found out about the charges in the last 24 hours. The ABC first contacted the club about the charge on Friday.
Rioli was set to return to training with the club on June 20, but Mr Vozzo said his return will depend on the outcome of the court matter.
