Geelong Cats Slammed Over Controversial Delisting of Injured Legend Cam Guthrie
Geelong Cats have faced fierce backlash from fans and pundits today following their controversial decision to delist premiership-winning midfielder Cam Guthrie, who is poised to undergo syndesmosis tightrope surgery to address serious Achilles and calf issues. The move ends Guthrie’s 240-game career with the club, leaving the decorated veteran without an AFL team as he prepares for a critical procedure aimed at repairing long-standing injuries.
Guthrie, a Geelong legend, enjoyed four consecutive seasons of 20-plus games before injury struck. From 2023 to 2025, he battled persistent setbacks: foot trouble in 2023, quad and Achilles injuries in 2024, and recurring Achilles and calf issues in 2025, which limited his on-field contributions and ultimately led to the club’s call. Despite his recent struggles, his legacy at Geelong remains untarnished. He was a key figure in the 2022 AFL Premiership triumph, claimed two Carji Greeves Medals (2020, 2022) as the club’s best and fairest, earned All-Australian selection in 2020, and was awarded Geelong Life Membership in 2022. Renowned for his agility, clean skills, and clutch performances during their championship run, Guthrie was celebrated as a consistent, versatile, and dedicated servant of the club.
Fans have taken to social media to express outrage, accusing the Cats of lacking loyalty to a player who gave over a decade of service. Pundits have questioned the timing of the delisting, arguing that Guthrie deserved support to recover from surgery rather than being cast aside. Former teammate and AFL analyst Jimmy Bartel stated: “Cam’s commitment to Geelong is unquestionable. To let him go as he faces major surgery feels disrespectful to his legacy.”
Geelong’s football department defended the decision in a brief statement, citing “list management priorities” and the need to nurture emerging talent. However, the explanation has done little to quell criticism, with many calling for greater compassion from the club. As Guthrie prepares for his operation, the debate over loyalty versus pragmatism in professional sport continues to rage, leaving a bitter taste for those who admired his contributions to the Cats’ success.
