Suspended Fremantle player Jason Carter has sought and been granted an early release from his 2020 AFL playing contract.

General manager of football Peter Bell said Carter, his management and family had requested an early release from his playing contract, which the club had agreed to.

Earlier this week, Carter was served with a club-imposed sanction, including a five-game suspension, after the 20-year-old was charged by police with a drink driving offence last weekend.

“Following Jason’s five-game suspension, Jason and his management sought clarity around Jason’s likely contractual status for 2021,” Bell said.

“The club informed Jason and his management that Jason would not be offered a contract for 2021 and subsequently an early release from his 2020 playing contract was agreed to.

“In the meantime, the club will continue to provide ongoing welfare support for Jason, in conjunction with the AFL Players’ Association.

“We take this opportunity to thank Jason for his time at Fremantle and wish him all the best for the next phase of his career.”