Brisbane’s Koby Evans has been suspended four matches for the use of a homophobic slur in the VFL.
The AFL confirmed on Thursday afternoon that Evans had been found guilty of breaching Rule 2.3(a) (Conduct Unbecoming) in an incident during the VFL Lions’ Round 6 clash with Coburg.
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It’s understood Evans apologised multiple times, both during and after the match, after the alleged comment was made to a Coburg opponent.
In addition to missing four games, the 18-year-old will also undertake education on LGBTQI+ inclusion.
Evans’ self-reporting of the incident earned him a four-match sanction instead of the typical five-match penalty, which is what Gold Coast’s Wil Powell in 2024 and Sydney’s Riak Andrew last year copped.
“Everyone understands that homophobia and homophobic language has absolutely no place in our game at any level or in the wider community,” AFL Chief Operating Officer Tom Harley said.
“Our players have a very clear understanding of what is acceptable on the football field and in society. Koby self-reported this incident and has taken ownership of his mistake both privately and publicly.
“It is extremely disappointing to be dealing with another incident of this nature. While we will always examine the individual circumstances, we cannot be more clear that respect and inclusion are not optional in our game – they are fundamental.”
Evans, a West Australian midfielder, was drafted with the 38th pick in last November’s national draft and has played five VFL matches this year.