Catalans confirm signing of Israel Folau

Drew Darbyshire 28 Jan 2020 12:39 PM

Catalans have signed controversial character Israel Folau on a one-year deal.

The 30-year-old, who will ply his trade for the Dragons in 2020, was sacked by Australia Rugby in December after he was released for writing homophobic posts on social media in April.

Folau said “hell awaits” gay people, after previously receiving cautions over his social media outbursts.

Folau commented: “I acknowledge the views expressed by Super League and the Rugby Football League.

“I’m a proud Christian, my beliefs are personal, my intention is not to hurt anyone and I will not be making further public comment about them.

“I look forward to my return to the great game of rugby league with the Catalans Dragons.”

Dragons chairman Bernard Guasch said: “We want to give Israel a new opportunity to shine on the pitch.

“We do not support or agree with Israel’s previously expressed and controversial views which are based upon his sincerely held religious belief.

“We do not share or condone those views and we are totally committed to our club and our sport being open and welcoming to everyone.

“We do not believe that those views should be publicly expressed, especially by a high-profile sports person. We have a signed agreement with the RFL. Any transgression will trigger an immediate termination of Israel’s contract and a substantial fine for the club.”