Overview

• Willie Rioli apologised for sending a threatening post-match message about Western Bulldogs player Bailey Dale, which was privately resolved by Port Adelaide.
• The AFL issued a $1000 fine for an on-field strike during the same match but declined further sanctions for the message, drawing criticism for leniency.
• Former AFL players, including Tim Watson and Gary Lyon, have criticized the league’s inconsistent disciplinary measures, calling the response inadequate.
• New allegations surfaced of Rioli threatening a Geelong player during a 2024 match, with the incident reportedly causing distress but not formally reported to the AFL at the time.
• The AFL is reportedly considering reopening its investigation into Rioli’s conduct following these additional allegations.