‘When will it end’: Crows star Izak Rankine responds to online racism

Adelaide Football Club player Izak Rankine has expressed his disappointment over a racist remark sent to him on social media. 

Rankine posted a screenshot of the comment on his Instagram account, writing: 

“Pretty disappointing to STILL have to deal with this. When will it end.” 

The Adelaide Football Club released a statement saying that it “strongly condemns the hurtful and abhorrent racist remark” and that there is no place for racism of any kind in football or the wider community. 

Crows CEO Tim Silvers said the deliberate act of racially vilifying Izak Rankine was totally unacceptable and disgraceful, and the club would not stand for it.

“All of us have a responsibility to call out this type of reprehensible behaviour,” he said.

“Equally, we must also take the time to understand the hurt it causes the person who has been targeted, as well as in this instance all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.” 

Mr Silvers said the club was supporting Rankine and his family and that it had contacted the AFL’s Integrity Department. 

He said the club was committed to playing a role in educating as many people as possible. 

“From the Chairman and Board of Directors through to our players, coaches, staff and volunteers, we are determined to use our voice and platform to continue to make a stand,” Mr Silvers said.