AFL suspends Izak Rankine for four games over 'highly offensive' homophobic slur

Adelaide Crows star Izak Rankine has been suspended for four matches for using a homophobic slur against a Collingwood opponent during last weekend's AFL match at Adelaide Oval.

The ban means Rankine would only be available for this year's grand final if the Crows lose their first final, and subsequently win through.

In a statement, the AFL said its integrity unit had found Rankine had 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," the AFL said.

The AFL said Rankine had been found guilty of breaching its rules regarding conduct over the incident, which occurred during the final quarter of the Crows' win over Collingwood on Saturday night.

The league acknowledged Rankine rang the Collingwood player in question on Sunday to apologise, and that he "fully cooperated" with the investigation, admitted using the slur and expressed remorse.

AFL general counsel Stephen Meade said homophobia has "no place in football" and that both Rankine and the Crows acknowledged the remark "was not acceptable".

"The language used was offensive, hurtful and highly inappropriate. Our players have a very clear understanding of what is acceptable on the football field," he said.

"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.

"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."

In a statement, Rankine said he regretted "using the word" and that he was "very sorry for doing so". (Getty: Matt King/AFL Photos)

AFL CEO Andrew Dillon will hold a media conference shortly regarding the outcome.

In a statement released by the Crows, Rankine said he regretted "using the word" and admitted it had "no place" in the game.

"It was a mistake and I have apologised to the Collingwood player, and what happened does not reflect my values or those of the Club," he said.

"I regret using the word and I am very sorry for doing so, and that type of language has no place in football or the community.

"I'm committed to educating myself and being better."

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