AFL Controversy: Willie Rioli Faces New Allegations of Threatening Messages

 AFL Controversy: Willie Rioli Faces New Allegations of Threatening Messages

Port Adelaide’s Willie Rioli is accused of sending a threatening message to a Geelong player during a match last season, marking a second such incident after his apology for messaging a Western Bulldogs player. The Geelong message, labeled inflammatory, upset the targeted player, prompting Geelong’s football boss to contact Port Adelaide. The matter stayed internal at the player’s request to avoid media attention, and neither the AFL nor the Players’ Association was informed until recently. In the earlier Bulldogs incident, Rioli sent a threatening message to a teammate of Bailey Dale after a 90-point loss, warning Dale to be cautious in Darwin. Rioli was fined $1000 for striking Dale in that game and faced racial abuse online after posting about it. The AFL investigated but took no further action, noting the clubs resolved it privately while urging respectful communication. Public reaction on X has been heated, with many criticizing the AFL for not imposing stricter penalties and questioning potential bias in handling the cases. Port Adelaide views the Bulldogs matter as resolved and has not addressed the Geelong allegation. Coach Ken Hinkley is expected to comment ahead of the upcoming Showdown. The controversy highlights ongoing concerns about player conduct and the AFL’s response to off-field incidents, with fans and observers calling for greater consistency in disciplinary measures.

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