Rugby: No punishment for Israel Folau's 'gays to hell' post

Israel Folau won't be punished by Rugby Australia. Photo / Photosport

Israel Folau has told Australia rugby bosses that he "understands he's caused some grief" over his "gays go to hell" social media post, but he will not be disciplined.

The Wallabies and Waratahs fullback and his manager met with Rugby Australia chief executive Raelene Castle and Waratahs boss Andrew Hore in Sydney today.

New Zealander Castle described the meeting as "very open, very calm and very honest" and applauded Folau for having strong beliefs but said his use of social media needed to be respectful.

"There's a very clear policy around social media," she said.

"When [athletes] use public platforms they need to think about the implications of a comment they make.

"Israel acknowledged he could have put a more positive spin on the message.

"He understands he's caused some grief in this.

"He's a very religious man.

"He wants to see everyone live in a positive world but needs to make sure he's respectful."

Folau's post caused outrage around the rugby world and was criticised by such figures as openly gay referee Nigel Owens, one of the top-ranked whistle-blowers in the game.

He has also got sponsors offside and put major backer Qantas – a vocal proponent of same-sex marriage - in a difficult position.

But Castle played down fears that Qantas would withdraw its support for rugby.

"Qantas are facing the same challenges," Castle said.

"They've got thousands of staff and an inclusion policy but it's not a smooth road.

"Full inclusion is what we're hoping for.

"[Qantas chief executive] Alan Joyce is very clear they've got an inclusion policy and they're working towards full inclusion.

"That's what rugby is working towards."

Castle added there would be ongoing dialogue with Folau but he had not been formally punished.

"Israel's presented his views and beliefs and we're proud of the fact he's prepared to stand up for what he believes in," Castle said.

"But RA has got a policy of inclusion and using social media with respect. We both recognised we should use our social media platforms with respect.

"Israel's gone away to think about that. He's making sure we aren't asking him to compromise his beliefs.

"He doesn't want to be disrespectful."

Folau is off contract at the end of 2018 but the Wallabies hope to have him at the 2019 Rugby World Cup.

"We'd love him to stay in rugby," Castle said.

Raelene Castle. Photo / Photosport

"He's a really strong role model in the Pacific community but we understand he's an athlete in demand."

Hore said the meeting was a productive one.

"In any changing room there's a wide range of views — it's about how those views are put across," Hore said.

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