Izak Rankine gets 4-match ban for homophobic slur, misses AFL finals

Izak Rankine's 4-match ban means he misses the rest of the AFL season, including finals. This is one of many recent bans for similar language.
By Newsroom | AFL, Sports |

Context of the Incident and Fallout

Izak Rankine, an Australian Football League (AFL) player for the Adelaide Crows, received a four-match suspension for using a homophobic slur against an opponent from the Collingwood Football Club. The incident occurred during a match between the two teams. Following the suspension, Rankine issued an apology, stating, "It was wrong and I take full responsibility. There is no place for homophobia in society." He also privately apologized to the targeted player.

The AFL, after discussions with the Adelaide Crows, handed down the ban. This action has drawn comparisons to previous suspensions for similar offenses. For example, Jack Graham of West Coast Eagles received a four-match ban for a homophobic slur in July, and Will Powell of Gold Coast received a five-match ban in May of the previous year.

Response and Stated Intentions

Rankine broke his silence publicly on September 3, 2025, after returning from a period of leave. He stated his intention to engage with the AFLW team and support the broader football club. His coach, Matthew Nicks, backed the club's decision to send Rankine overseas during his suspension and defended the timing of his apology. Rankine was reportedly given a strict training program during his time away.

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‘I’m done’: Rankine reveals how his homophobic slur pushed him to the edge - 1

Details of the Suspension and Comparisons

  • The suspension ruled Rankine out of the Crows' remaining home-and-away matches and their finals campaign.

  • Initial reports, including comments from former Collingwood president Eddie McGuire, suggested a five-match ban.

  • However, the official decision was a four-match suspension.

  • Rankine's case marks him as the sixth AFL-listed player suspended for homophobic remarks since April of the preceding year.

  • Previous suspensions include Jeremy Finlayson (three matches), Will Powell (five matches), Jack Graham (four matches), and Riak Andrew (five matches). Lance Collard received a six-match ban.

Rankine's Apology and Responsibility

Rankine has acknowledged his actions were "wrong" and stated he takes "full responsibility." He also conveyed that "homophobia has no place in football." He previously issued a written statement and apologized privately to the Collingwood player involved.

Expert and Public Reaction

There were critical reactions to the Adelaide Crows' attempts to justify Rankine's slur, as noted by former Hawthorn captain Luke Hodge. The club confirmed Rankine's use of the slur in a press release on August 21, 2025. The circumstances surrounding the ban and the club's handling of the situation have been subjects of public discussion and media coverage.

Conclusion and Next Steps

Izak Rankine has been suspended for four matches due to using a homophobic slur. He has issued apologies both publicly and privately and stated his commitment to supporting the football community. The incident highlights a broader issue within Australian sport, with Rankine's ban being one of several similar penalties issued in the recent past. The Adelaide Crows' handling of the situation has faced some scrutiny, though coach Matthew Nicks has defended their approach. Rankine's stated intentions indicate a desire to engage constructively with the club and broader AFLW community moving forward.

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Sources

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why was Izak Rankine banned for 4 AFL matches?
Izak Rankine was banned for using a homophobic slur against an opponent during a game. The AFL decided on a four-match suspension for this behavior.
Q: What does Izak Rankine's 4-match ban mean for his season?
The ban means Izak Rankine cannot play for the rest of the Adelaide Crows' home-and-away games and will miss the entire finals series. His season is over.
Q: Has Izak Rankine apologized for using the homophobic slur?
Yes, Izak Rankine has apologized publicly and privately to the player he offended. He said his actions were wrong and that homophobia has no place in football.
Q: How does Izak Rankine's ban compare to other AFL players?
Izak Rankine is the sixth AFL player banned for homophobic remarks recently. Other players like Will Powell (5 matches) and Jack Graham (4 matches) received similar bans.
Q: What will Izak Rankine do during his suspension?
During his time off, Izak Rankine took a break and plans to work with the AFLW team and support the club. His coach said he had a strict training program while away.