Israel Folau's NRL Return Blocked by Commission Member, Camp Claims
Summary: Israel Folau's camp claims a short-term return to the NRL with the Wests Tigers was blocked by an ARL Commission member. The NRL and the club have declined to comment.
Potential Return and Internal Discussions
According to statements made by Maria Folau in a social media video posted on behalf of her husband, Wests Tigers coach Benji Marshall contacted Israel Folau about joining the club for the remainder of the 2024 season.
She stated that Marshall indicated the move had been approved by ARLC chairman Peter V'landys and the Tigers board.
Alleged Intervention and Withdrawal of Contract
Maria Folau claimed that the deal was subsequently blocked by ARL Commission member Wayne Pearce. She said Pearce cited concerns regarding "inclusiveness" and "negative optics."
She further stated that the Tigers' board was scheduled to meet on Sunday to finalize the contract but ultimately decided not to lodge it, a decision she attributed to media pressure.
Accusations of Double Standards
In a separate comment, Israel Folau accused the NRL of maintaining a double standard.
"The game talks about inclusion, yet my Christian beliefs were said to be a problem... At the same time, players who've committed actual offences have been welcomed back."
Responses from Involved Parties
- Wests Tigers: The club declined to comment on the specific claims, instead referring to coach Benji Marshall's earlier statement that the club was not signing Folau.
- Wayne Pearce and the NRL: Both declined to comment.
- ARLC Chairman Peter V'landys: No statement has been issued regarding the alleged approval of the move.
Background
- Israel Folau played in the NRL from 2007 to 2010 before moving to the AFL and later rugby union.
- His rugby union career was effectively terminated in 2019 following a series of homophobic social media posts.
- In 2021, a potential return to the NRL with the St. George Illawarra Dragons was blocked following public backlash.