AFL Investigates Racial Abuse Targeting Two Indigenous Football Stars
AFL Faces Renewed Outrage Over Racist Abuse Targeting Indigenous Stars
The AFL is confronting another wave of racial abuse after St Kilda’s Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera and Port Adelaide’s Jase Burgoyne, two rising Indigenous talents, shared horrific messages they received online following matches on Sunday. Both clubs swiftly reported the incidents to the league, reigniting calls for stronger action against racism in sport.
Wanganeen-Milera, 22, posted screenshots of an Instagram DM containing racial slurs and violent language after St Kilda’s narrow loss to Sydney. The anonymous user lashed out over his performance, writing, “Bro u f*ing n***… Couldn’t f***ing touch the ball once more.” The defender, who recorded 24 disposals despite heavy tagging, responded calmly: “Over a game of football. Hero mate.” Teammates Liam Stocker and Bradley Hill rallied behind him, with Hill tweeting, “Some people hey!!!! Love you @nasiah_wm7.”
St Kilda’s Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera shared racist messages received post-match.
Burgoyne, 21, faced equally vile abuse from an account named “Tim,” which included racial and sexual insults. One message read, “Welcome to country you f***ing loser,” referencing the Indigenous ceremony. Burgoyne replied with a clown emoji, highlighting the absurdity of the hate.
Port Adelaide’s Jase Burgoyne responded to abuse with a clown emoji.
A Recurring Crisis
The AFL Integrity Unit is investigating, but fans and players alike are frustrated by the persistent pattern. Racial abuse has plagued the league for years:
- 2023: Jamarra Ugle-Hagan (Western Bulldogs) faced slurs online and in-person, prompting lifetime bans. Charlie Cameron, Michael Walters, and Izak Rankine also reported abuse.
- 2021: Bradley Hill’s partner received racist messages.
- 2019: West Coast’s Liam Ryan was called a “monkey” online.
- 2013-2015: Adam Goodes endured relentless booing and an “ape” slur, leading to his early retirement.
- 2023: Eddie Betts revealed his children were targeted near their home.
Western Bulldogs’ Jamarra Ugle-Hagan confronted racism in 2023.
Calls for Accountability
While the AFL has issued lifetime bans and launched investigations, critics argue social media platforms and the league must enforce stricter measures. St Kilda and Port Adelaide emphasized zero tolerance, stressing the emotional toll on players.
Wanganeen-Milera’s Rising Profile
Amid the turmoil, Wanganeen-Milera’s future dominates headlines. The wingman, whose uncle Gavin Wanganeen is a Port Adelaide legend, is weighing offers exceeding $1 million annually. Port Adelaide, home to his close friend Burgoyne, is a potential suitor. Burgoyne recently inked a four-year extension and admitted, “We’re talking every day… catching up whenever he’s in Adelaide.”
Port Adelaide’s Willie Rioli faced abuse earlier this season.
The Path Forward
The AFL’s efforts to combat racism include education programs and partnerships with Indigenous communities. Yet players demand tangible consequences for perpetrators and faster responses from platforms. As Wanganeen-Milera and Burgoyne’s courage amplifies the conversation, the league faces pressure to turn words into action—ensuring the next generation thrives without fear of bigotry.
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