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Rugby player Israel Folau under fire for saying gay people go to hell

Rubgy player Israel Folau has been criticised for saying gay people go to hell.

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Six months after encouraging people to vote ‘No’ to marriage equality the high profile rugby star made a comment on his Instagram page saying gay people would end up in; “HELL… Unless they repent of their sins and turn to God”.

Folau made the comment in response to a post where he referred to God’s plan. A follower asked him what he thought God’s plan for gay people was, and he responded to the question.

Rugby’s biggest sponsor QANTAS as labeled his comments “very disappointing”, while Rugby Australia said the players views were not in line with the beliefs of the game’s governing body.

A spokesperson said Folau’s statement did not “reflect the views of Rugby Australia”.

“We support all forms of inclusion whether it’s sexuality, race or gender,” the spokesperson said.

In 2014 Folau served as the face of the Bingham Cup, an amateur gay rugby tournament. Last year however he voiced his opposition to allowing couples of the same gender to marry.

OIP Staff


 

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