'The Epitome Of Racism': AFL Issues Apology Over Indigenous Vaccine Requirements

The AFL has come under fire over a costly communication slip-up in relation to Indigenous players needing an extra vaccination.

With the competition looking to relocate after the rapid spike in COVID-19 cases across New South Wales in Victoria, it was required that all players have a flu shot before entering the safeguarded bubble of Queensland.

But concerns have been raised over the added requirement for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander athletes to have a pneumococcal immunisation shot too.

And with players and fans understandably fuming over the bizarre protocol, the AFL Players' Association (AFLPA) wasted no time in stepping in.

The AFLPA released a statement saying: "In the past 48 hours, the AFLPA has become aware of Indigenous players being required to have pneumococcal vaccinations prior to entering AFL (hubs).

"We are very concerned about this issue.

"The fact that these vaccinations were not discussed with the AFLPA as part of the return play protocols or otherwise, is a significant issue we have raised with the AFL.

"We are now working directly with players to ensure they understand their rights and options available to them regarding any requested vaccinations."

The AFL have since issued an offical apology for their blunder, although some of the AFL's biggest personalities aren't buying it.

Former host of Nine Network's The Footy Show Sam Newman has unloaded on the AFL, suggesting their communication breakdown is 'the epitome of racism'.

Newman tweeted: "Isn't it often the way, the people who accuse you of something usually end up doing it far worse.

"The AFL requiring aboriginal players to adhere to different safety protocols IS the epitome of 'racism'. Waiting for the pathetic explanation."

Topics: afl, Racism, Coronavirus, Twitter, Australia, Covid-19

Max Sherry

Max Sherry is a journalist for SPORTbible Australia. After migrating Down Under from London as a teenager, he instantly fell in love with Aussie sport and its culture. From NRL to AFL, cricket to rugby — you name it, Max watches it (with a beer in hand, of course). During his time at Fox Sports, he worked in the football department covering the Premier League, A-League, Socceroos and Matildas. Born a stone's throw away from West Ham's training ground, Max is obviously a die-hard Liverpool fan.

@maxysherry