Rugby World Cup 2019: Israel Folau's Rugby Australia contract officially terminated

Israel Folau hasn't lodged an appeal.
Israel Folau hasn't lodged an appeal. Photo credit: Getty

Rugby Australia says Israel Folau's contract will be torn up, after he has not lodged an appeal before the 72-hour window expired.

Wallaby Folau had until Monday afternoon to appeal his high-level code of conduct breach and sanction.

"As Folau has not notified the panel of his intention to appeal, the code-of-conduct process has now formally concluded," said RA in a statement.

"With the code-of-conduct matter complete, Folau's employment contract will be terminated."

But the rugby superstar has hinted he may pursue legal avenues to restore his reputation.

"The last few weeks and, in particular, the last 72 hours have given me considerable opportunity to reflect and think about my future," he said in a statement.

"I will not be exercising my right to appeal Rugby Australia’s decision to terminate my employment contract."

Israel cited a lack of confidence in Rugby Australia’s management of the judicial panel process. 

"My decision not to commence Rugby Australia’s appeal process is in no way an acceptance of the judicial panel’s findings," he said.

"I simply do not have confidence in Rugby Australia’s ability to treat me fairly or lawfully throughout this process."

While he is not appealing the ruling through Rugby Australia's judicial process, Folau confirmed he was considering his options in the face of growing discontent with the way Rugby Australia had handled his code of conduct hearing.

"The messages of support from fans, players, former rugby administrators and the public have been humbling," he said.

"I believe I still have a lot of rugby left in me and the potential impact of Rugby Australia's decision on my reputation and my career is substantial.

"Ultimately, I need to do what is best for my family, my teammates and the fans, so I am considering all potential avenues open to me," Israel concluded.

Folau had just signed a four-year deal, two months before his social media post that caused the code-of-conduct hearing.

On top of that, Folau told the Sydney Morning Herald after a church service that he was prepared to walk away from the sport without a fight for the sake of his faith.  

Folau began his career with the NRL's Melbourne Storm in 2007 and later that year became the youngest-ever player to represent Australia.

In 2011, he moved to AFL and spent two years with Greater Western Sydney, before switching to rugby union in 2013, where he's been since.

Reports claim Folau will head to the Supreme Court to appeal Rugby Australia's decision to terminate his contract.

AAP