AFL news 2025 | Riak Andrew homophoic slur in VFL match; Sydney Swans statement; integrity unit


The Sydney Swans have confirmed AFL-listed player Riak Andrew has been cited after using a homophobic slur in a VFL match against North Melbourne.

Sydney confirmed the incident happened on Saturday with a club statement saying Andrew “understands the language he used is unacceptable”.

“He is remorseful and takes full responsibility,” the statement continued.

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Andrew was recruited to the Swans on night two of the 2024 draft after playing for Dandenong Stingrays. He is the brother of Suns star Mac Andrew.

Riak Andrew during a 2025 AFL community series match between Gold Coast Suns and Sydney Swans. via Getty Images

Sydney Swans chief executive Tom Harley described the behaviour as disappointing.

“This behaviour does not reflect the values of our club, and we take this matter very seriously,” Harley said.

“While it is disappointing, we recognise that Riak is at the beginning of his career and we will use this as an opportunity to provide support and education, to ensure Riak understands the impact of his words.

“In a fortnight we will be playing in the Pride Game, a match that is incredibly important to our club. We are committed to creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment.”

The AFL integrity unit is investigating the matter.

Just more than a week ago, the AFL banned West Coast’s Jack Graham for four matches after he used a homophobic slur against GWS.

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