Ex-Collingwood Captain Sues Former Manager Jason Sourasis for $3 Million
In a stunning legal stoush that’s rocked the AFL community, former Collingwood captain Scott Pendlebury has launched a $3 million lawsuit against his long-time manager and close friend, Jason Sourasis, alleging years of financial betrayal.
The 35-year-old Magpies legend, who played a pivotal role in Collingwood’s 2023 and 2024 premiership triumphs, filed court documents in the Victorian Supreme Court claiming that Sourasis misappropriated more than $2.1 million from his personal investment account over a period of nine years.
Pendlebury alleges that between 2015 and 2023, over 50 unauthorised transactions were carried out without his consent, funnelling money into companies and accounts tied to Sourasis. The legal documents describe a trail of alleged deception that spans nearly a decade, with funds reportedly used to prop up Sourasis’s business ventures, including interests linked to Western United Football Club and the Western Melbourne Group.
In a further blow, Pendlebury claims he also lent Sourasis $300,000 in 2023, under the agreement that the money would be repaid within weeks — with an annual interest rate of 50%. That debt, now allegedly ballooning beyond $600,000, remains unpaid.
The revelation has sent shockwaves through the football world. Pendlebury, widely respected for his leadership, composure and professionalism, is known to be extremely private about his off-field dealings. Sources close to the midfielder say the betrayal has left him “gutted.” Scott trusted Jason not just as a manager, but as a mate,” said one insider. “This isn’t just about money. It’s about a friendship being completely shattered.”
The fallout was swift. Pendlebury terminated all ties with Sourasis in February 2025, after a routine financial review uncovered the irregularities. The veteran midfielder has since engaged a new financial advisory team and forensic accountants to assess the full extent of the alleged losses.
Sourasis has denied all wrongdoing, vowing to “vigorously defend” himself in court. A statement issued through his legal team said the claims were “unfounded and deeply disappointing.”
As the legal battle unfolds, the case raises broader concerns about financial protections for high-profile athletes and the potential risks of blurred personal and professional relationships.
Pendlebury, still contracted to Collingwood for 2026, is said to be focusing on his football — but the scars of the alleged betrayal may last far longer than any off-season.
