Adelaide has confirmed that two of its players were subject to "five threatening messages" via social media in September, prompting an investigation by the South Australian police.
One of the players is believed to be Crows superstar Izak Rankine.
It is understood that a 31-year-old from Kensington Gardens has been arrested for allegedly sending threatening messages following the Crows' qualifying final loss to Collingwood four days earlier.
Rankine was in the midst of serving a suspension for making a homophobic slur.
Adelaide provided the following statement:
BREAKING: SA Police have arrested a 31 year old Kensington Gardens man for allegedly sending five threatening messages to a 25 year old man via social media on Monday September 8.
Nine News understands the victim is Crows star Izak Rankine.
More to come@9NewsAdel @FootyonNine
— Braden Ingram (@bradeningram) December 9, 2025
"Adelaide can confirm two of its players were subject to direct and significant threats on a social media platform," the statement reads.
"Subsequently, reports were made to South Australia Police in September, which prompted investigations.
"The AFL Integrity Unit was advised of the matters, and both players have been provided with the necessary and ongoing support.
"Any form of online abuse, discrimination or threatening behaviour is unacceptable, and it has no place in our society."
According to NewsCorp, the man was charged with "using a carriage service in an offensive manner and bailed to appear in the Adelaide Magistrates Court on January 30, 2026".
