AFL Apologises To Adam Goodes For Acting "Too Slowly" Over Racist Booing

#IStandWithAdam

With the 2016 Premiership season almost upon us, AFL CEO Gillon McLachlan wants to set the record straight on 2015’s big ‘booing’ controversy.

In the AFL Annual Report, released yesterday, McLachlan admitted the AFL “acted too slowly” in addressing the abuse being directed at Sydney Swans great Adam Goodes, even going as far to say he felt the 'booing' was indeed racially motivated.

Goodes, a two-time Brownlow medalist and 2014’s Australian of the Year, announced his retirement at the end of the ’15 season, following months of abuse from punters.

"Adam stood up to represent indigenous people and he took a stand on racism, and for this, I believe he was subject to hostility from some in our crowds," McLachlan wrote.

"As a game, we should have acted sooner and I am sorry we acted too slowly."

Though it might be little consolation to Goodes, McLachlan added that the larger conversation about racism – not just in sports, but in Australia as a whole – at least educated the AFL CEO on a personal level.

"The national conversation about racism taught me how important our role is to partner with all players to fight racism," McLachlan wrote.

"Adam has led with courage and humility and I look forward to the day our game can properly celebrate the retirement of this great champion."

Goodes declined an opportunity to attend last year's Grand Final and join fellow retiring players in a pre-game parade. The Premiership season kicks off next Thursday.

Photo: SwansTV.