The boot awaits Israel Folau, now more than ever.
A panel of Australian national rugby officials reportedly have concluded star player Falou did violate his contract in posting controversial messages on social media that included a warning that “hell awaits” gay people, among others.
It’s important to note, as the Guardian reports, that the officials decided the violation was “a high level” breach of that contract, which gives them the power to ban him from the game. Anything less and he might have gotten away with just being fired from the national team.
The devout Christian was fired by Rugby Australia last month for his April 10th Instagram post in which he proclaimed “drunks, homosexuals, adulterers, liars, fornicators, thieves, atheists, idolators” were going to hell unless they repented and asked to be “saved” by Jesus.
The three-person panel of chair John West, Rugby Australia representative Kate Eastman and the Rugby Union Players Association representative John Boultbee is now deciding Folau’s fate.
According to the Guardian, a suspension and/or a fine remains the best possible outcome for Folau, but the termination of his contract is now a distinct possibility. Whatever decision the panel makes is not expected to be announced for several days.
Folau can appeal whatever decision is reached, and if that happens, a new three-person panel would be selected.
Their decision may hinge on the fact that this isn’t Folau’s first brush with a potential breach of contract, or violation of official guidance. Last year the rugby fullback was warned against further anti-LGBTQ social-media posting. He complied, until last month.
