Ex-AFL Star Radio Host Accused of Framing Izak Rankine as Victim After Homophobic Slur

Adelaide Crows’ Izak Rankine Handed Four-Game Ban for Homophobic Slur
By James Cooney | Updated: 07:42 BST, 21 August 2025

Adelaide Crows star Izak Rankine has been suspended for four AFL matches after directing a homophobic slur at a Collingwood player during a heated clash at Adelaide Oval on August 16. The incident has sparked controversy, with former Crows great turned radio host Stephen Rowe facing backlash for defending Rankine and accusing Collingwood of “weaponizing” the scandal.

Izak Rankine received a four-game ban for using an anti-gay slur during an AFL match.

AFL’s Zero-Tolerance Policy
The AFL’s disciplinary action aligns with its strict stance on homophobic language. Recent cases include West Coast’s Jack Graham (four games), Port Adelaide’s Jeremy Finlayson (three games), and Gold Coast’s Will Powell (five games). Rankine’s suspension, shorter than the expected five matches, still sidelines him for the remainder of the regular season, jeopardizing Adelaide’s premiership hopes—their first since 1998.

Rowe’s Controversial Defense
Stephen Rowe, a prominent Adelaide radio personality, drew criticism for framing Rankine as a “victim” during a 5AA broadcast. He suggested Collingwood “provoked” Rankine and accused the club of exploiting the incident for strategic gain ahead of a potential finals matchup. “They knew what they were doing,” Rowe claimed, arguing the Magpies should have handled the matter privately.

Stephen Rowe faced backlash for his comments defending Rankine.

Public Backlash
Social media erupted over Rowe’s remarks, with critics calling his take “gross” and “pathetic.” Reporter Mark Gottlieb tweeted, “Trying to turn Rankine into the victim is GROSS.” Others condemned Rowe’s insinuation that Collingwood shares blame, with one fan stating, “This could be the single dumbest take I’ve ever seen.”

Rankine’s Apology and Fallout
Rankine, who apologized publicly, becomes the sixth AFL player suspended for homophobic language in 16 months. The ban permits him to play in the Grand Final only if Adelaide loses a qualifying final. Meanwhile, Crows coach Matthew Nicks admitted the scandal has distracted the team ahead of their crucial clash against North Melbourne. A win would secure Adelaide the minor premiership and home finals advantage.

The AFL has suspended multiple players for homophobic remarks since 2024.

Coach’s Response
“We’re supporting Izak—it’s tough, but we’ll work through it,” Nicks said, emphasizing the team’s focus amid turmoil. The Crows, currently atop the ladder, face heightened pressure to clinch their first flag in 27 years without Rankine’s on-field contributions.

The incident highlights ongoing challenges in combating discriminatory language in sports, with the AFL reiterating its commitment to inclusivity. As finals approach, all eyes remain on Adelaide’s resilience—and the league’s enforcement of its values.