AFL great Nicky Winmar is set to co-lead a landmark racism class action against the AFL, joining former player Phil Krakouer in the legal fight against the league and several clubs. The case, which involves more than 1,000 players and spans nearly five decades, aims to expose and address systemic racism in Australian football.
Winmar, whose iconic 1993 stance against racism remains a defining moment in the sport, has already joined the class action as a group member. However, he has now “courageously” offered to take on a leadership role, alongside Krakouer, to ensure the case has maximum impact.
The lawsuit alleges prolonged racial discrimination in the AFL between 1975 and 2022, targeting the league and five clubs: North Melbourne, Essendon, Collingwood, Geelong, and Carlton. Plaintiffs are seeking recognition of their experiences and plan to use historical game footage—spanning over 200 matches—as evidence.
While the AFL acknowledges its past failings in handling racism, the league is expected to defend itself against claims of negligence. Judge Andrew Keogh has set an April 24 deadline for the plaintiffs to file their legal arguments.
Winmar’s role in this case is particularly significant given his legacy in confronting racism. His famous gesture of lifting his guernsey and pointing to his skin in 1993 remains one of the most powerful anti-racism moments in Australian sport. His actions, alongside Michael Long’s advocacy, contributed to the AFL implementing the world’s first racial vilification policy in 1995.
Despite these policies, racial discrimination remains an issue within the sport. This case could have major implications for the AFL, potentially reshaping how racism is addressed in Australian rules football.
With proceedings set to intensify in the coming months, all eyes will be on the AFL and how it responds to one of the most significant legal battles in the league’s history. http://gty.im/1483035075
