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AFL breaks silence on Rioli, hands down sanction
SEN • May 8th, 2025 7:13 pm
The AFL has released a statement on Willie Rioli following an investigation into the Port Adelaide forward's on and off-field threats to opponents.
Rioli has been suspended for one week, while also being enrolled in education for non-violent language and conduct.
The forward decided earlier today to pull himself out of Saturday's Showdown. He'll be available for Port Adelaide's Round 10 clash against Geelong after serving his suspension this weekend.
Read the statement below:
"The AFL has today sanctioned Port Adelaide player Willie Rioli with a one match suspension in connection with his recent conduct and earlier incidents that involved physical threats against other players," the statement read.
"Following last weekend’s match against the Western Bulldogs, Rioli sent a message to a Western Bulldogs’ teammate of Bailey Dale threatening Dale.
"Dale was made aware of the matter but having received an apology and assurances from Rioli he did not seek that any further action be taken. Having looked into the matter and after speaking with both Port Adelaide and the Western Bulldogs, the AFL determined in all the circumstances not to take any action in what was considered an isolated incident at the time.
"In more recent days, and after the above determination, it has been revealed that Rioli had previously made threats to other players in two previous incidents.
"The AFL has investigated those incidents and spoke to all players and clubs involved over the last 24 hours and the AFL notes the cooperation from all parties including Rioli who made admissions in relation to his conduct.
"Given the cumulative number and nature of the incidents involving Rioli and other players, the AFL has revisited its earlier decision, and it has determined it is appropriate that: 1 - Rioli receives a one match suspension and is not able to play in this weekend’s Round Nine match against the Adelaide Crows; and 2 - Rioli participates as soon as possible in education on respectful / non-violent language and conduct to be prescribed by the AFL.
"Rioli will also continue to be provided wellbeing support."
“We understand in a competitive and at times combative environment there are exchanges between players on field, but they still need to be in the realms of respect and sportsmanship and that applies to everyone,” AFL General Counsel Stephen Meade said.
“After receiving the additional information about further threats, we investigated and determined Rioli should not be eligible to play this week and that he undertakes further education around a pattern of behaviour we don’t want to see in any part of our game – on or off the field.
“Respect for each other, whether players, coaches, fans, is the cornerstone of our AFL community and it is a reminder for everyone involved to treat each other with respect.”
