Overview
- The AFL Integrity Unit has interviewed Izak Rankine and is expected to finalise its decision on Wednesday, according to 7NEWS.
- Adelaide lodged a written submission seeking leniency and citing alleged provocation by Collingwood players, prompting further interviews and a short delay.
- Multiple outlets, including Nine’s Footy Classified via Eddie McGuire, report the league has signalled a five‑game suspension that would end Rankine’s season, though the AFL has not announced a penalty.
- Competition sources told the Sydney Morning Herald Rankine used the slur once and did not self‑report; he has apologised and teammates say he is remorseful and will accept the outcome.
- Any sanction will be weighed against recent precedents ranging from three to six matches for homophobic language, and Adelaide could appeal if a lengthy ban is issued.