Adelaide Crows midfielder Izak Rankine is reportedly under scrutiny by the AFL’s integrity unit following allegations that he used a homophobic slur during a weekend clash against Collingwood.
The alleged incident took place during the Crows’ Saturday night (16 August) match against the Magpies, with reports suggesting Rankine directed a slur at an opposition player.
In a statement to AFL.com, the League confirmed it was investigating:
“The AFL is aware of an alleged matter with the Integrity Unit making inquiries.”
The Adelaide Football Club also acknowledged the situation. A club spokesperson said:
“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.”
Potential consequences
Should the investigation proceed and find Rankine guilty, he faces the possibility of a lengthy suspension, in line with recent penalties handed to other players for similar conduct.
The AFL has taken a firm stance against the use of homophobic language on the field. In June, Sydney Swans player Riak Andrew received a five-match ban for directing a “highly offensive” slur towards a North Melbourne opponent.
Just days earlier, West Coast Eagles’ Jack Graham was also banned for using a homophobic slur in a match against Greater Western Sydney.
Throughout 2024, several players were penalised for similar behaviour:
- Jeremy Finlayson (Port Adelaide) – three-match ban
- Wil Powell (Gold Coast Suns) – five-match ban
- Lance Collard (St Kilda) – record six-match suspension, the longest in AFL history
The AFL’s ongoing crackdown reflects its commitment to addressing homophobia within the sport.
Rankine, who joined Adelaide from Gold Coast at the end of 2022, has yet to publicly comment on the allegations.
