The AFL wishes to advise that Adelaide Crows player Izak Rankine has been found guilty of breaching AFL Rule 2.3(a) (Conduct Unbecoming) in relation to an incident during the fourth quarter of the Round 23 match between Adelaide and Collingwood on Saturday night.

The incident was reported to the AFL on Sunday by the Adelaide Crows.

The AFL Integrity Unit found that Rankine used a highly offensive homophobic slur against a Collingwood opponent — language that demeans and denigrates people regardless of their sexuality.

Following an investigation and submissions from Adelaide and Rankine including compelling medical submissions, Rankine has received a four-match sanction and has been ordered to undertake further Pride In Sport training.

It should be noted that on Sunday, Rankine rang the Collingwood player to personally apologise and he fully cooperated with the subsequent investigation by the AFL Integrity Unit including by admitting the use of the homophobic slur and being remorseful for it.

"The language used was offensive, hurtful and highly inappropriate. Our players have a very clear understanding of what is acceptable on the football field. Importantly, in this instance it was called out by players and acknowledged by Izak himself as wrong — and that reflects the standards we expect and demand in our game," AFL General Counsel Stephen Meade said.

"Izak has said he knew it was not acceptable. Adelaide have said they know it is not acceptable. In an AFL environment, this behaviour is not acceptable. Homophobia has no place in football. The suspension is significant, but stamping out vilification in our game is incredibly important. Everyone in football understands the rules, and there are consequences of breaching them.

"We recognise this is a challenging time for the players and clubs involved, and appropriate support has been offered. But our responsibility is also to every player, official and fan who deserves respect when they come to our game. In 2025, the players know this more than anyone.

"We know people in the LGBTQI+ community and allies hurt when an incident like this happens. One incident of this nature is too many, and the fact there have been multiple this year shows we still have more work to do and we are committed to that."

All AFL and AFLW players and officials receive yearly education regarding vilification and the effects of such behaviour, including a new dedicated LGBTQI+ inclusion education module introduced in 2025. The AFL will continue to strengthen anti-vilification training across every level of the game.

The AFL will continue to consider the specific circumstances in each incident in determining appropriate responses.