Lance Collard has been found guilty of using a homophobic slur against an opposition player, with no word yet on the sanction it will bring while the St Kilda consider their next steps.

Following a four-hour judiciary hearing on Thursday, the AFL on Friday confirmed the independent tribunal's upholding of the charges Collard breached the league's conduct unbecoming rule by using the slur against a Frankston player a fortnight ago.

It's understood the AFL is seeking a 10-week suspension for the young forward, who had previously been banned for six weeks due to the use of multiple homophobic comments in a 2024 VFL match.

He apologised at the time for the previous incident.

Six players have been handed bans for homophobic comments in recent seasons with three to six-week sanctions handed out. Collard could be the first player to be found guilty of the same offence twice.

A second hearing will now take place to determine the sanction for Collard, with no date yet confirmed.

During Thursday's hearing, the 21-year-old repeatedly denied his use of a slur, and instead said "come here, maggot".

Frankston's Darby Hipwell and Bailey Lambert both stated they were certain they heard a homophobic slur said by Collard.

"The AFL acknowledges the decision of the independent disciplinary tribunal today to uphold the charge against Lance Collard of the St Kilda Football Club following a finding that he breached AFL Rule 2.3(a) (Conduct Unbecoming) by the use of a homophobic slur directed towards an opponent in a VFL match on March 27," the AFL said in a statement on Friday night.

The league added: "The AFL has no tolerance for the use of homophobic language in our game and its expectations have been made extremely clear to all of our players, including by education that all AFL and VFL players receive."

A "disappointed" St Kilda are considering their options to appeal, saying they will make no further comment while the matter remains ongoing.

"The process is ongoing, with further submissions from both parties to be made on any penalty. A date for this next step is yet to be confirmed," the club said in a statement.

"The club is also reviewing the tribunal's written findings and will consider its position, including avenues of appeal. We will continue to support Lance Collard throughout this process.

"As the matter remains ongoing, the club will make no further comment at this time."

Collard has made 15 AFL appearances for the club since his debut in 2024.