Overview

• Izak Rankine received a four-match suspension for directing a homophobic slur at a Collingwood opponent, with the AFL also requiring further Pride in Sport training.
• The AFL said the sanction was reduced from an initial five weeks after Adelaide submitted "compelling medical submissions," as confirmed by CEO Andrew Dillon.
• Adelaide granted Rankine extended leave, and he flew to Europe via Italy to train privately and avoid ongoing scrutiny.
• Under eligibility rules, he can only play again this season if Adelaide lose their qualifying final and then progress through the semi and preliminary finals to reach the Grand Final.
• Adelaide secured the minor premiership without him as players highlighted their system-first approach, and coach Matthew Nicks said Rankine has support but is not the victim, while commentator Kane Cornes criticised the optics of his overseas trip and urged him to front up.