Australian rugby star Jacques Potgieter fined for homophobic slur
An Australian Rugby Union player was fined today for using a homophobic slur during a match on Sunday.
New South Wales player Jacques Potgieter was fined AUD$20,000 (£10,450), for the slur during the match against the Aquis Brumbies on Sunday.
He admitted making the comments which went against the Australian Rugby Union’s (ARU’s) Inclusion Policy.
As well as the fine, which has AUD$10,000 ($52,000) suspended, he will undergo education and awareness training. The sanctions were
ARU CEO Bill Pulver said: “We take the issue of homophobia in sport seriously and want to provide a positive environment for everyone involved in Rugby. Comments of this nature cannot be tolerated.”
“Our Inclusion Policy reinforces Australian Rugby’s commitment to ensure every individual, whether they’re players, supporters, coaches or administrators, feel safe, welcome and included regardless of race, gender or sexuality.
“I’d like to stress again that there is absolutely no place for homophobia or any form of discrimination in our game and our actions and words on and off the field must reflect that.”
David Pocock, who plays for the Brumbies, and who is a strong supporter of marriage equality – twice complained to the referee about homophobic remarks used by the opposing team – despite Australia Rugby Union committing to a ‘zero tolerance’ approach last year.
