It looks like the never ending saga of Israel Folau and his Instagram account may have actually come to an end. Folau was demanding $14 million and an apology from Rugby Australia after they sacked him, and while we don’t know how much he’s been paid out, he got his apology
A joint statement has been released by both Israel Folau and Rugby Australia, and very much has the vibe of tired parents making two kids apologise to each other after a fight.
According to the statement, “Mr Folau did not intend to harm or offend any person when he uploaded the social media post. Mr Folau wants all Australians to know that he does not condone discrimination of any kind against any person on the grounds of their sexuality and that he shares Rugby Australia’s commitment to inclusiveness and diversity.”
Which would be all well and good if the social media post in question wasn’t damning most of the population to hell, but ok.
Then we get to the part of the statement from Rugby Australia. After pointing out that they absolutely don’t agree with telling LGBTIQ+ people they’re going to hell, they apologised to him.
“While it was not Rugby Australia’s intention, Rugby Australia acknowledges and apologises for any hurt or harm caused to the Folaus. Similarly, Mr Folau did not intend to hurt or harm the game of rugby and acknowledges and apologises for any hurt or harm caused.”
Neither Rugby Australia or Israel Folau say they’ll make any more statements about the settlements.
People are already debating whether or not Rugby Australia should have been made to apologise for sacking Folau or not, but regardless, I can only hope that this is the end of this story. It’s been dominating headlines for months on end, but it feels more like it’s dragged on forever. Case closed, please can I never hear about Israel Folau ever again.
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