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NRL bans two people for alleged racial abuse of Latrell Mitchell and Cody Walker

The Rabbitohs welcomed the stance, as the NRL announced it had issued the notices of intention to ban for an indefinite period to the patrons.

NRL RABBITOHS PANTHERS

South Sydney Rabbitohs stars were allegedly racially abused by spectators during last Saturday's game against the Dragons at Kogarah. Source: AAP / Dan Himbrechts

The NRL have announced they've handed down indefinite ban notices to two people who allegedly

The abuse was overheard by another member of the public in the crowd who informed the NRL and the Rabbitohs.
In a statement, the NRL CEO Andrew Abdo said racist abuse would not be tolerated in the game.

"Racism must be called out in all its forms because the standard you walk past is the standard you accept,” Mr Abdo said.

“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 South Sydney Rabbitohs released a statement in support of the NRL's stance on the matter.

"The Rabbitohs also stand against racism not only in sport but in society in general," the statement read.

Rabbitohs CEO, Blake Solly, welcomed the ban and applauded the member of the public who reported the incident, calling the alleged abuse "disgraceful behaviour".

"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," Mr Solly said.

“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.

“We call for supporters who attend games to respect all players and their efforts on the field.”

Mr Abdo said the NRL's Spectator Code of Conduct would continue to take action against any fan who displays any offensive or anti-social behaviour.

"We have a strong system in place which enables us to deal with these types of comments quickly and decisively," Mr Abdo said.

"The system also enables other spectators to be confident enough to report inappropriate comments, which in this case has allowed us to act.

“As a game we need to stand with our players and ensure they are treated with respect at all times. We will continue to protect players in their place of work.”

After the incident came to light, the Rabbitohs, the St George Illawara Dragons and the NRL all released statements condemning the alleged abuse.

“Racial discrimination has no place in our sport or in our society. The Dragons stand united with the NRL and with the Rabbitohs in condemning racism in all its forms," the Dragons statement read.

The NRL said the two spectators have five business days to respond to the ban notices.

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3 min read
Published 16 May 2024 11:46am
By Madison Howarth
Source: NITV


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