Sydney youngster Riak Andrew has been cited for using a homophobic slur while playing for the club’s VFL side.
The Swans said the 20-year-old is “remorseful and takes full responsibility” for the slur that came during the Swans’ clash against North Melbourne on Saturday.
Loading…
It is unclear what the AFL’s sanction will be for Andrew, with the matter currently being investigated by the AFL Integrity Unit.
“This behaviour does not reflect the values of our club, and we take this matter very seriously,” Swans CEO Tom Harley said in a statement on Monday evening.
“While it is disappointing, we recognise that Riak is at the beginning of his career and we will use this as an opportunity to provide support and education, to ensure Riak understands the impact of his words.
“In a fortnight we will be playing in the Pride Game, a match that is incredibly important to our club. We are committed to creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment.”
The incident involving Andrew comes barely a week after West Coast midfielder Jack Graham was handed a four-match ban for using a homophobic slur during a match against the GWS Giants.
Three AFL players were suspended for using homophobic slurs during matches in 2024.
Gold Coast’s Wil Powell (five matches) and Port Adelaide’s Jeremy Finlayson (three matches) were banned in the AFL.
St Kilda’s Lance Collard received a six-match penalty following a slur made towards two Williamstown players in a VFL fixture.
Discussion about this post