The Round 13 clash between Sydney and St Kilda will not be a designated 'Pride Game' in the wake of the Lance Collard Tribunal case.
The 'Pride Game' was due to play at the SCG in Round 13 on Sunday, June 7, which is an annual event that celebrates and stands with LGBTIQA+ communities.
But the Collard case, who was found guilty of using a homophobic slur towards an opponent - which he vehemently denied - has led the Saints to be removed from the clash.
Sydney will play the Pride Game against the Western Bulldogs in Round 17.
"I wanted to communicate with you directly on a matter that is important to us as a club," St Kilda CEO Carl Dilena said in a statement.
"Many of you will be aware that our Round 13 game against Sydney had been designated in the fixture as the AFL Pride Game. Following the extensive media coverage of the recent AFL Tribunal matter and associated public reaction, our club has been in discussions with Sydney Swans, the Rainbow Swans supporter group, Pride Cup, and the AFL. I want to thank everyone involved for the respectful and constructive way those discussions have been approached.
"As a result of those conversations, the decision has been made that our match with Sydney this year will no longer be played under the Pride Game banner.
"While we would have preferred to proceed with the Pride Game designation to support inclusion and education, we understand and support the decision given the impact the recent publicity has had on members of the LGBTQIA+ and First Nations communities.
"St Kilda has a long and proud history of inclusion. Alongside Sydney, we helped establish the AFL Pride Game in 2016 because we believe football should be a place where everyone feels welcome, safe and respected. These values are important for our staff, our players, our fans and our community.
"We remain deeply committed to LGBTQIA+ and First Nations inclusion in sport at every level. We are proud advocates of respect and inclusion and remain committed to continuing that work across our club and community.
"Importantly, the change to the Pride Game this year does not alter our commitment. We will continue working proactively with our people, supporters and industry partners to ensure St Kilda remains a club where everyone feels they belong."
The Swans' decision to move away from the Saints was to ensure the game has a positive impact.
