Rugby Australia has announced it intends to terminate Israel Folau's contract over a homophobic social media post.
The Wallabies star wrote on Instagram that homosexuals, drunks, liars, fornicators, thieves, atheists and idolators will all end up in hell because of their sinful ways.
Folau also took aim at Tasmania's decision to introduce a no gender option for birth certificates saying 'the devil has blinded so many people in this world'.
Rugby Australia condemned the homophobic post, with CEO Raelene Castle saying in a statement: "In the absence of compelling mitigating factors, it is our intention to terminate his contract.
"Whilst Israel is entitled to his religious beliefs, the way in which he has expressed these beliefs is inconsistent with the values of the sport.
"Israel has failed to understand that the expectation of him as a Rugby Australia and NSW Waratahs employee is that he cannot share material on social media that condemns, vilifies or discriminates against people on the basis of their sexuality.
"As a code we have made it clear to Israel formally and repeatedly that any social media posts or commentary that is in any way disrespectful to people because of their sexuality will result in disciplinary action."
The post was met with strong condemnation from his followers, with many calling him backward and discriminatory.
One person wrote: "Just when I thought the shit that comes out of your mouth couldn't get any worse. You're a tool, sit down and shut up!"
Another added: "Why would you post something that will cause division? I would be shocked if it actually turned anyone to Jesus from messages of fear and judgement like this."
A third said: "Sad how someone could be so brainwashed in the 21st century, idiot."
10 Daily reports Folau's contract was updated last year to include a social media clause in the wake of similar sentiment he posted. When a follower asked him what he thought of LGBT people when they die he said they would go straight to hell.
That incident alone nearly cost him his job but it seems yesterday's post is the straw that broke the camel's back.
Featured Image Credit: PATopics: Rugby, News, Australia
