Saskatchewan Roughriders Terminate Ajou Ajou Following CFL Investigation and Suspension
The Saskatchewan Roughriders have taken decisive action by waiving receiver Ajou Ajou, following the Canadian Football League's announcement of his suspension for violating the league's gender-based violence and harassment policy. This move comes after an independent investigation into an incident that occurred at a Regina restaurant on November 18, 2025, just two days after the Roughriders secured their Grey Cup championship with a 25-17 victory over the Montreal Alouettes in Winnipeg.
Immediate Release After League Suspension
The Roughriders released Ajou on April 16, 2026, moments after the CFL disclosed his suspension, which will extend through the preseason and at least six regular-season games. The league's investigation determined that Ajou was "engaged in aggressive and unwelcome physical contact with multiple women" during the post-championship celebrations. This incident took place during the Grey Cup parade along Regina's Green Mile, where exuberant gatherings at the legislative building had become part of local lore.
Team Leadership Emphasizes Zero Tolerance Policy
Roughriders General Manager Jeremy O'Day addressed reporters on Thursday, making it unequivocally clear that Ajou would not return to the team even if he completes the mandatory requirements for reinstatement. "Our players and our staff are required to complete education for gender-based violence and harassment every single year," O'Day stated. "This is reinforced multiple times throughout the year. Our expectation is for our players and staff to treat people with respect and integrity. These violations clearly did not meet that standard for our organization and they will not be tolerated."
CFL Commissioner Issues Strong Statement
CFL Commissioner Stewart Johnston emphasized the league's commitment to community safety in a media release. "Protecting the safety and well‑being of our communities is non‑negotiable," Johnston declared. "Our players are expected to lead with integrity and serve as role models. When improper conduct occurs, our policy is clear, and we will enforce it without exception. It is my hope that Mr. Ajou learns from this experience, and that other players take this unfortunate situation as a reminder of the standards we uphold."
Mandatory Counseling and Psychological Assessment Required
As part of his suspension, Ajou must complete 15 mandatory counseling sessions arranged by the CFL, along with a psychological assessment, before he can seek approval from Commissioner Johnston to resume his football career. The Roughriders, a community-owned franchise, have expressed embarrassment over the incident and have severed ties with the receiver, requesting that he return all team merchandise.
Investigation Process and Team Response
The Roughriders became aware of the incident two months after it occurred and immediately reported it to the CFL office. An independent investigation followed, interviewing complainants and witnesses before the suspension was imposed. While some have speculated that the championship celebrations may have contributed to the environment, the team maintains that all players are repeatedly educated on their code of conduct and community responsibilities.
The Roughriders have a established code of conduct for everyone associated with the organization, and this violation represents a clear breach of those standards. The team's swift action in waiving Ajou demonstrates their commitment to upholding these principles, even when it involves a player who just days earlier had helped them achieve the ultimate prize in Canadian football.
