Bookmaker Sportsbet has severed ties with AFL grand final umpire Nick Foot in the wake of the Zak Butters tribunal saga. 7NEWS understands Foot was informed late last week that his services would no longer be required by the betting company.
The AFL has continually backed Foot in recent weeks and remained comfortable with his partnership as a horse racing analyst with the bookmaker. However, the fallout from the Butters incident has prompted a change in policy.
Foot's Statement on Departure
In a statement provided to 7NEWS on Monday, Foot said he has nothing but good memories from his time with Sportsbet. "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."
Sportsbet was contacted for comment but did not respond.
The Butters Tribunal Controversy
Foot reported Port Adelaide star Zak Butters during the club's Gather Round loss to St Kilda at the Adelaide Oval for abusive or insulting language towards an umpire. Foot told the tribunal Butters asked him, "How much are they (St Kilda) paying you?" after a free kick was awarded to St Kilda.
Butters strongly denied the comment but was found guilty by the tribunal before the matter was thrown out by the appeals board on a legal technicality. It’s understood the Foot-Butters matter has forced an internal change of policy by Sportsbet to no longer employ officials from any sporting code.
Foot's Umpiring Career
Foot has umpired 272 AFL games, including the 2024 grand final. Despite the end of his partnership with Sportsbet, he remains an active AFL umpire and is expected to continue in his role for the foreseeable future.
