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The Australian rugby player who was fired earlier this year for writing on social media that “hell awaits” gay people has sued Australia Rugby and his former team, claiming that his contract was unlawfully ended over his Christian beliefs.
Israel Folau launched a court action against the federation and the NSW Waratahs this week after mediation attempts in the country’s main workplace relations tribunal broke down in June.
“Unfortunately, our conciliation before the Fair Work Commission did not resolve the matters between us and I have been left with no choice but to commence court action,” Folau said in a statement, according to the Guardian.
Israel Folau speaks to media following his conciliation meeting with Rugby Australia at Fair Work Commission on June 28, 2019 in Sydney, Australia. (Getty)
The 30-year-old rugby player’s career ended in May after he posted an image on social media saying “Hell awaits you!” with a list of sinners, including “homosexuals, adulterers, liars.” He said these “sinners” must repent to Jesus to be saved.
The Tongan-Australian athlete was a key player for the Australian national side at the time. He has been capped 62 times for his country, scoring 32 tries.
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Rugby Australia terminated his four-year contact – 10 days after an independent panel found Folau guilty of a high-level breach of the players’ code of conduct for his contentious post in mid-April.
In his lawsuit, Folau is seeking $6.8 million in compensation and a return to the national side, BBC reported.
“I confirm I have commenced court proceedings against Rugby Australia and NSW Waratahs,” he wrote on Twitter on Thursday. “Thank you to those who have supported me over this journey – it has meant so much to Maria and me. God bless.”
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His firing sparked a debate in Australia about freedom of speech and the right of players to express their beliefs.
“I believe it is my duty as a Christian to share God’s word,” Folau said at the time. “Upholding my religious beliefs should not prevent my ability to work or play for my club and country.”
Folau has drawn support from vocal Christian lobby groups. In June, he raised more than $1.3 million in a crowd-funding campaign by the Australian Christian Lobby.
An earlier fundraiser had been shut down by GoFundMe after the platform said Folau’s cause promoted discrimination.
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“I have been blessed to have received the support of tens of thousands of Australians throughout my journey, and I want to say thank you to everyone who has offered their prayers and support. It has meant so much to [wife] Maria and me over the last few months and gives us strength for the road ahead,” he said.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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