Advertisement
Super Rugby
RugbyFifteens

Israel Folau sets up crowdfunding page for legal dispute over homophobic social media posts

  • The Australian rugby player has locked horns with the authorities declaring no one should be fired for their religious beliefs
  • He had his contract terminated after calling for homosexuals, among others, to repent or face eternity in hell

Reading Time:3 minutes
Why you can trust SCMP
Isreal Folau was one of Australia’s best players before his contract was ripped up. He is now suing Rugby Australia for unlawful termination. Photo: Geoff Caddick
Mark Agnew

Israel Folau has posted on Instragram a picture reading “Support”, with the caption detailing his financial woes as he seeks donations for his legal fees

The former international rugby player is suing Rugby Australia for wrongful termination. He was fired after posting on social media “Warning: Drunks, Homosexuals, Adulterers, Liars, Fornicators, Thieves, Atheists, Idolaters. HELL AWAITS YOU. REPENT!”

In Folau’s latest post he said he has already spent AUS$100,000 (HK$540,440) fighting the case. In his latest post he said: “I am willing to do what it takes for this cause. But to continue I need to prioritise funding for my legal case. To those who believe in the right to practise religion without fear of discrimination in the workplace, here is my ask: Stand with me.”

Advertisement

Folau was on a four-year, AUS$4 million contract before the termination. He views his current legal case as bigger than just his own struggle.

“My faith is who I am and if I don’t stand up for it, what hope is there for a person of less resources who is discriminated against in the workplace?” he wrote.

Advertisement
Advertisement
Select Voice
Choose your listening speed
Get through articles 2x faster
1.25x
250 WPM
Slow
Average
Fast
1.25x