The AFL Players’ Association has issued the following statement attributed to AFLPA CEO, James Gallagher:

“We are deeply concerned by statements made by the AFL Appeals Board when arriving at its decision on Thursday night.

“The AFLPA does not accept the suggestion that vilification is “commonplace” on the field between players. No matter how hard or competitive the game is, there is no excuse for racist, sexist, or homophobic language and this language is hurtful to communities beyond the individual it is directed at.

“Every step of this process has caused more harm to the LGBTQIA+ community, the First Nations community, and the individuals at the centre of this issue and that is something the industry must deeply reflect on. We have a shared responsibility to develop an approach that is fair, minimises and remedies the harms caused, and shifts behaviour.

“Football is for everyone and all players and the AFLPA remain committed to playing our part in building a culture where everyone is valued, respected, and safe.”