- Slammed for backing Rankine but ignoring Brown’s bisexual announcement
- One of just two clubs to not respond to Brown’s public statement
Adelaide remains one of just two AFL clubs to not publicly acknowledge footy star Mitch Brown’s brave bisexual revelation, despite Crows player copping a suspension for a homophobic slur.
Adelaide forward Izak Rankine was handed a four-match suspension for using a homophobic slur during a match against Collingwood.
The AFL confirmed the ban after an investigation, saying his language was unacceptable and breached league standards.
Just days after the announcement that Rankine would miss the AFL finals unless his side made the Grand Final, Brown made his announcement.
Brown has publicly come out as bisexual, making him the first in league history to do so.
Brown said he wanted to live openly and hoped his honesty might encourage others in sport to feel comfortable with their identity.
Mitch Brown bravely announced he is bisexual, the first AFL player in history to do so
Brown said living openly may inspire others in sport to feel safe with their identity
Adelaide’s Izak Rankine was issued a four-game ban after using homophobic slur, leaving Crows without him for finals
His announcement was praised by most clubs as a brave step in an environment where discussions about sexuality remain rare.
Brown then opened fire on the four AFL clubs that had not acknowledged his statement over the weekend, including Adelaide.
‘Collingwood, might not pay my membership next year at this rate,’ Brown – a lifelong Magpies fan – posted online.
‘Geelong, you know my bro works with you right? ‘Hey Adelaide… nah I won’t even bother.
‘Brisbane Lions you’re off the hook. The Taylor Swift engagement is so much bigger than this. ‘Who’s next?’
That came after Adelaide did make a public statement on Rankine, with CEO Tim Silvers publishing his comments on the club website.
‘As you know, Izak Rankine won’t be playing due to his four-game suspension for making a homophobic remark the last time we played against Collingwood,’ he said.
‘We want to reiterate the language he used is totally unacceptable and it does not reflect our Club’s values.
Brown criticised four AFL clubs, including Adelaide, for failing to acknowledge his public revelation about sexuality
‘It is also worth noting the decision to allow him to travel overseas for a short break was based on welfare grounds and we are continuing to provide appropriate support to everyone who needs it.’
Since Brown attacked the clubs that had not posted about his announcement, Collingwood and Geelong have since released statements.
‘Former West Coast player Mitch Brown courageously shared his story this week – an important step forward for Australian football,’ read Collingwood’s statement on X.
‘While we believe everyone in our game – on and off the field – should feel safe and supported in being their authentic self, we recognise this is not always the reality.
‘Collingwood remains committed to fostering a truly inclusive environment and stands alongside every current and former athlete, staff member, (club) member and supporter in the LGBTQIA+ community – today and always.’
Geelong also published a similar statement to Instagram around 7.30pm on Saturday.
‘We applaud former West Coast Eagles player Mitch Brown for the courage and leadership he has shown in sharing his story this week,’ the club posted.
The Brisbane Lions are the other AFL club that has not publicly acknowledged Brown’s announcement.
Daily Mail Australia has contacted the Adelaide Crows and Brisbane Lions for comment.
