Sportswear brand Asics has dumped Rugby Union player Israel Folau over his social media posts, which could also see him sacked from the game.
Folau posted an image, which remains on his feed, to Instagram in April which said “hell awaits” homosexuals.
The posts triggered a swift response from Rugby Australia, the sport’s governing body, which on Tuesday found Folau committed a “high-level breach” of the Professional Players’ Code of Conduct. The body will reconvene at a later date to decide whether to sanction Folau.
Now, Asics has cut ties with the rugby star, saying the partnership has become “untenable”.
“Asics is dedicated to sport and its healthy contribution to society. We believe sport is for everyone and we champion inclusivity and diversity,” the brand said in a public statement.
“While Israel Folau is entitled to his personal views, some of those expressed in recent social media posts are not aligned with those of Asics.
“As such, our partnership with Israel has become untenable and he will no longer represent Asics as a brand ambassador.”
At the time the controversy erupted, Qantas, a major sponsor of both Folau’s team the Wallabies and Rugby Australia, urged the governing body to take action against him.
Media buyers, including BCM managing director Phil McDonald, also commented on the issue.
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