AFL star Izak Rankine faces investigation for alleged use of homophobic slur
AFl star Izak Rankine faces investigation over the alleged use of a homophobic slur (Getty)
AFl star Izak Rankine faces investigation over the alleged use of a homophobic slur (Getty)
Adelaide Crows star Izak Rankine is reportedly facing a possible investigation from the AFL integrity unit over the alleged use of a homophobic slur.
The AFL (Australian Football League) confirmed today (18 August) that it was aware of an alleged incident between Izak Rankine, a midfielder for the Crows, against the Collingwood Football Club, during a Saturday (16 August) match.
Various reports over the weekend indicated that Rankine was set to face an investigation after allegedly using a homophobic slur towards a Magpies opponent.
“The AFL is aware of an alleged matter with the Integrity Unit making inquiries,” the League said in a statement (via AFL.com)
The same publication reported that a spokesperson for Adelaide said in a statement: “We are aware of an alleged matter involving one of our players in Saturday night’s game and we are in discussions with the AFL.”
If an investigation goes ahead and finds Rankine guilty, he is at risk of a lengthy ban from playing.
Multiple AFL players over the past few months have been handed bans for using homophobic slurs during matches.
Sydney Swans player Riak Andrew was suspended in June for five matches for using a “highly offensive’” slur against a North Melbourne opponent.
Andrew’s suspension comes just days after West Coast Eagles player Jack Graham was similarly suspended for also using a “highly offensive” homophobic slur during a recent match against a Greater Western Sydney Giants player.
Three AFL players were suspended for using homophobic slurs in 2024, including Port Adelaide player Jeremy Finlayson, who accepted a three-match ban, and Gold Coast’s Wil Powell, who was handed a five-match ban.
St Kilda’s Lance Collard received a six-match penalty that year, too, which was the longest suspension in AFL history.
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