AFL News

Brisbane tear up fan’s membership following AFL investigation into racism directed at Crows star

Adelaide forward Izak Rankine was subject to racial abuse on social media during Sunday’s clash with Brisbane.

Published by
Aidan Cellini

Brisbane has made the call to cancel an individual's club membership following racist remarks directed at Adelaide forward Izak Rankine on social media.

The Lions and Crows did battle at the Gabba on Sunday night as the hosts notched up their fifth consecutive win by 11 points.

However, during the contest, it came to light that Rankine was racially targeted, prompting a strong response from Brisbane.

"Racism is unacceptable. There are no excuses," the Lions statement said.

"We condemn the social media comments made towards an Adelaide Crows player during the match last night.

"They do not reflect the values of our club or our players.

"The comments have been reported to AFL Integrity for further investigation.

"The individual's membership has been cancelled immediately."

The Crows came forward on Monday in support of the Lions' decision after the club had been in contact with the AFL's Integrity Department.

Adelaide CEO Tim Silvers was infuriated that these situations continue to occur but stood by the "swift and decisive" call made by Brisbane.

“There is no place for racism of any kind in society and it is extremely sad and disappointing that we find ourselves dealing with yet another abhorrent attack on one of our players,” Silvers said.

“As an industry we have a collective responsibility to not only call out racism, but do everything we can to eradicate it, and we support Brisbane which has acted swiftly and decisively.

“It is also important we take the time to understand the hurt this behaviour causes Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people because unfortunately, despite how far we have come in this space, the message is still not getting through.

“The Club will continue to support Izak and his family and do whatever we can to stamp out racism in football and the wider community.”

This is the third incident the 24-year-old has copped since April last year.

Rankine is likely to be cited by the Match Review Officer (MRO) for his off-the-ball bump on Lions defender Brandon Starcevich.

The MRO findings from Sunday's games will be released on Monday evening.

Published by
Aidan Cellini