The AFL could enforce its strict anti-gambling policy for the first time, with four players now under investigation.

The league issued a media release on Friday night, saying "it is investigating four players for betting on AFL matches or events".

This is the first time the league has investigated a possible breach of its gambling rules.

The AFL formulated its policy earlier this decade and its penalties include a fine of up to $100,000.

If found guilty, a player could also face an indefinite ban from competition or even attending AFL games.

"The AFL regulations and standard player contract both clearly outline all players and officials responsibilities in regard to gambling, as a core issue for the integrity of the game," AFL operations manager Adrian Anderson said in the league statement.

He has appointed AFL investigators Allan Roberts and Bill Kneebone to look into the allegations.

The league would not say how it became aware of the matter.

The statement added: "Mr Anderson said there was no suggestion any player had bet against his side winning."

But it did not rule out altogether that one or more players under investigation had bet on their own sides.

AFL betting also covers aspects of the game such as where a team finishes at the end of the season, plus possessions and goals.

It is understood the four players are not from the same club.

The AFL expects Roberts and Kneebone to complete the investigation within the next fortnight.

All players and club officials are banned from betting on AFL matches or events, such as the Brownlow Medal.

The gambling rule also expressly forbids players from not performing on their merits "in any match for any reason whatsoever".

Brought to you by AAP © 2024 AAP