The AFL advises that Gold Coast Suns player Max Knobel has been found guilty of breaching AFL Rule 2.3(a) (Conduct Unbecoming) following an incident during the VFL Round 11 match between the Gold Coast Suns and Brisbane Lions. 

The incident occurred during the second quarter and was reported to the AFL by the Gold Coast Suns following the match on Saturday afternoon. 

During the subsequent investigation conducted by the AFL Integrity Unit, Knobel made full admissions that he used a highly offensive homophobic slur against a Brisbane Lions opponent.  

Knobel has been issued a four-match sanction. The sanction is consistent with previous matters where a player has self-reported such conduct, expressed remorse and issued an apology. 

Knobel will not be eligible to play for the Gold Coast Suns in the AFL in the period that encompasses Rounds 14 to 17 of the AFL season and any VFL matches that correspond with those AFL rounds. 

In addition to the sanction, Knobel will undertake further LGBTQI+ inclusion education. 

“Respect and inclusion are fundamentals across all levels of our game and any language and behaviours that do not reflect this will not be tolerated,” AFL Chief Operating Officer Tom Harley said. 

“Homophobia and homophobic language have absolutely no place anywhere and we will continue to stamp out any conduct that does not reflect our values. 

“We acknowledge that Max has self-reported the matter and accepted ownership of his mistake, however the incident demonstrates that there is still more work to be done. 

“We are committed to working together to make our game a safe, welcoming, and inclusive space for all.” 

All AFL and AFLW players and officials receive yearly education regarding vilification and the impacts of such behaviour. This includes a dedicated LGBTQI+ inclusion education module that was introduced last year.