Rugby Australia Have Made A Decision On Israel Folau’s Contract
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Sacked.
Controversial Wallabies fullback Israel Folau has had his contract officially terminated by Rugby Australia as a result of his latest homophobic outburst on social media.
Folau’s four-year contract was terminated this morning after he was found guilty earlier this month of a “high-level breach of the professional players’ code of conduct” over the posts.
Rugby Australia chief executive Raelene Castle told reporters at a news conference in Sydney that the body had no other option but to sack Folau.
“Rugby Australia did not choose to be in the situation, but Rugby Australia’s position remains that Israel, through his actions, left us with no choice but to pursue the course of action resulting in today’s outcome,” she said.
“This has been an extremely challenging period for rugby. This issue has created an unwanted distraction in an important year for the sport and for the Wallabies team.”
“This outcome is painful for the game. RA supports (players’) rights to their own beliefs and nothing changes from that.”
“But when we talk about inclusiveness we mean that we respect our differences as well.”
“Our clear message for all rugby fans today is that we need to stand by our values and the qualities of inclusion, passion, integrity, discipline, respect and teamwork.”
Folau has 72 hours to appeal the ruling.