The NRL has banned two spectators indefinitely following alleged racial abuse of South Sydney’s Latrell Mitchell and Cody Walker.
Mitchell and Walker were allegedly vilified during Saturday’s match against St George Illawarra at Kogarah Jubilee Oval.
The league issued a notice of intention to ban the spectators for an “indefinite period” following an investigation into the incident.
“Racism must be called out in all its forms because the standard you walk past is the standard you accept,” NRL chief executive Andrew Abdo said in a statement.
“Abusive behaviour directed at players will not be tolerated. I commend the fans that acted on this and brought it to our attention.
“With this information we have been able to take action.
“Attending a rugby league match should be a positive, welcoming and respectful environment for everyone.
“We want everyone to feel welcome and enjoy the experience.”
The Rabbitohs backed the NRL’s move, saying the club was “very supportive” of the stance.
“We applaud the members of the public that stood up and called out this disgraceful behaviour,” Rabbitohs CEO Blake Solly said.
“We hope more people show the bravery that this person has shown to call out racism in an effort to eradicate it from our society.
“We thank the NRL, the St George Illawarra Dragons and New South Wales Police for their efforts on this case.
“We continue to support our players and their families who, unfortunately, still have to face this type of behaviour.
“Racism is archaic, disgusting and will not be tolerated.”
Speaking on Tuesday, South Sydney’s Jack Wighton said he was frustrated with players being racially abused by spectators.
“It’s crazy. We shouldn’t be having this conversation right now and we are, and it’s sad,” Wighton said on Tuesday.
“That’s just stupidity. It’s going to go nowhere, and it’s going to get people nowhere. We’re still having this conversation. It’s a hard one.”
Posted 8h ago8 hours agoWed 15 May 2024 at 7:35am, updated 8h ago8 hours agoWed 15 May 2024 at 7:40am
