Port Adelaide forward Jeremy Finlayson has acknowledged using a homophobic slur during the team’s victory over Essendon, leading to an AFL inquiry.
Finlayson has expressed regret for the incident, which occurred in the third quarter of Port’s 69-point triumph over the Bombers on Friday night at Adelaide Oval.
Reports suggest an umpire’s microphone captured the derogatory remark, with at least one Essendon player also calling attention to it.
The Power stated in a press release that Finlayson will issue a statement on Sunday, with the recipient of the slur yet to be identified.
“A remorseful Finlayson informed the club during the three-quarter-time break and apologized to the affected party on the field after the final siren last night,” the Power commented.
“Finlayson, who will receive guidance from club officials in the coming days, is set to release a statement tomorrow.
“The club awaits the completion of the AFL’s investigation.”
The AFL also confirmed on Saturday night that Finlayson is under investigation.
“We are treating this matter with utmost seriousness,” an AFL spokesperson remarked.
“The AFLIU [integrity unit] is now conducting an investigation, and we will provide further updates upon its conclusion.”
In a separate incident last month, North Melbourne coach Alastair Clarkson was fined $20,000 and given a suspended two-match ban for verbally abusing St Kilda defenders Jimmy Webster and Dougal Howard during a pre-season game.
Clarkson was required to address his behavior with the AFL after allegedly using a homophobic slur during the practice match.
AAP
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