AFL Gillon McLachlan has apologised to Adam Goodes for not acting earlier to stop the booing directed at him last season.
McLachlan wrote in the AFL annual report that he believed the former Sydney champion was booed because he chose to discuss issues confronting indigenous people.
"Adam stood up to represent indigenous people and he took a stand on racism, and for this, I believe he was subject to hostility from some in our crowds," McLachlan wrote.
"As a game, we should have acted sooner and I am sorry we acted too slowly.
"The national conversation about racism taught me how important our role is to partner with all players to fight racism.
"Adam has led with courage and humility and I look forward to the day our game can properly celebrate the retirement of this great champion."
Goodes faced constant booing throughout the season last year and even opted to take a week off from the game in round 18.
The two-time Brownlow Medalist played 372 games and kicked 464 goals in his illustrious career, which included two premierships and three best and fairest awards.
Hey Gil, why didn’t Leroy Jetta get booed? Because the booing was not racist!
Goodes,just piss off,no one is interested in your self interest bullshit.
And big Gill,he’s left the game so why continue to kiss his arse.