Alastair Clarkson’s tenure as North Melbourne coach delayed in the wake of explosive racism allegations

Alastair Clarkson’s tenure as North Melbourne coach has been delayed in the wake of explosive racism allegations from his time in charge at Hawthorn.

The Hawks have been undergoing an external culture review with a report handed to the club two weeks ago.

The ABC has reported the report lays out allegations of young Indigenous players being separated from their families and partners, with one player claiming senior Hawthorn officials, including Clarkson, pressured him to terminate a partner’s pregnancy.

Brisbane Lions coach Chris Fagan announced he would take leave to assist the investigation on Wednesday morning as he was an assistant at the Hawks at the time and has allegedly been named in some of the allegations.

In a club statement, the Kangaroos announced Clarkson would not start his role at the club on November 1 as planned; he will instead to take time to participate in the investigation.

“The North Melbourne Football Club is aware of serious historical allegations made against individuals who worked at the Hawthorn Football Club, including incoming North Melbourne coach Alastair Clarkson,” the statement read.

“The matters raised are now with the AFL’s Integrity Unit, and Alastair welcomes the opportunity to co-operate with any investigation relating to the claims.

Camera Icon Alastair Clarkson will delay taking charge of North Melbourne. Credit: Darrian Traynor/Getty Images

“Alastair was due to commence work with North Melbourne on November 1; however, he will delay the start of his tenure to allow time to fully participate in the investigation.

“Given the matters raised are confidential, and the investigation is ongoing, the club will not provide any further comment at this time.”

Landing Clarkson was a major coup for North Melbourne who are looking to bounce back from claiming the wooden spoon.