Rivals Port Adelaide, Adelaide Crows call out racial abuse of Willie Rioli
Port Adelaide have called out “abhorrent” racist comments made about Power forward Willie Rioli on social media.
The club is supporting Rioli and his family after remarks were made about the West Coast premiership player during Saturday night’s Showdown.
It is the second time in as many seasons Rioli has been racially abused online, with the 29-year-old posting about it following a game against Collingwood last year.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.“The club condemns all forms of racism,” a Port Adelaide statement read.
“It causes deep harm and distress beyond the individual the words are directed at.
“Racism is abhorrent, unacceptable and never welcome - not in football, not anywhere.
“The club is supporting Willie and his family and will continue to use its platform to educate.”
The AFL’s integrity unit is investigating the racist comments.
Adelaide backed their arch-rivals’ stance.
“The individual involved is not a Crows member however, the club condemns in the strongest possible manner this disgusting behaviour and reiterates there is no place for racism in our game and society,” the Crows’ statement read.
“It is extremely disappointing that our industry once again finds itself dealing with such unacceptable behaviour.”
