Collingwood has condemned racist messages sent to Port Adelaide forward Willie Rioli as 'abhorrent and disgusting' after Saturday night's match at Adelaide Oval.
The offensive content was sent to Rioli following the Magpies' two-point win against the Power in a blockbuster, top-of-the-table clash.
It has been confirmed by the AFL that its Integrity Unit (AFLIU) will investigate the messages.
The Sporting News has all the latest details on the incident.
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What racist messages were sent to Willie Rioli?
The content of the racist messages sent to Rioli has not been made public.
It's understood the remarks were sent directly to one of Rioli's social media accounts.
Why was Willie Rioli subject to racism?
While no official link has been established with an incident in the match and the messages sent to Rioli, the Power goalsneak was involved in a last quarter fracas with Collingwood defender Nathan Murphy.
Vision showed Rioli and Murphy in a tussle off the ball before the Port Adelaide player knocked his opponent to the ground with a slap to the head.
Power coach Ken Hinkley played down the incident in his post-match press conference.
"There’s nothing in it, surely,” Hinkley said.
"I looked at it … it’s an open hand slipping up.
"I always say, ‘Let them take care of it’ and they’ll have a look at it if it needs to be looked at.
"But I have actually seen that one so I can say that I’ve seen a lot worse things happen."
What Collingwood said about the racist messages
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Collingwood chief executive Craig Kelly said: "The Collingwood Football Club strongly condemns the abhorrent and disgusting racist remarks directed towards Willie Rioli.
"There is no room for racism in our game and we will not tolerate it – not on the field, off the field or online.
"All of us have a responsibility to call out this behaviour and our Club is committed to playing a role in educating as many members of the wider community as possible.
"We stand alongside all First Nations players, staff and supporters."
What the AFL said about the racist messages
AFL CEO-Elect Andrew Dillon said: "Willie Rioli is a valued player to our game. Willie is a talented athlete and impressive young man and we stand with him and his family. Racist comments cause significant hurt and harm and no one should be subject to such abuse.
"Racism is inexcusable and is never ok. We strongly support all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander players and condemn the racial vilification of anyone in the community."
The AFL also confirmed any fan found guilty of racial vilification would be banned for life from AFL matches.
