Rugby Australia has labelled superstar Israel Folau's Instagram post that said "hell awaits" for homosexuals as "unacceptable."
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Rugby Australia has labelled superstar Israel Folau's Instagram post that said "hell awaits" for homosexuals as "unacceptable."
The statement from the organisation comes just hours after the Wallabies and Waratahs star took to social media with more homophobic messaging.
Folau again sparked significant reaction when he shared an image on Instagram on Wednesday evening along with the caption: "Those that are living in Sin will end up in Hell unless you repent. Jesus Christ loves you and is giving you time to turn away from your sin and come to him."
RA moved quickly to acknowledge the growing backlash to the posts, distancing themselves from the message.
"Rugby Australia is aware of a post made by Israel Folau on his Instagram account this afternoon," the statement read.
"The content within the post is unacceptable. It does not represent the values of the sport and is disrespectful to members of the Rugby community.
"The Rugby Australia integrity unit has been engaged on the matter tonight."
Folau could now be looking at potential sanction from RA following his latest controversial social media posts.
The 30-year-old also tweeted in response to news that Tasmania would be making gender optional on birth certificates, saying: "The devil has blinded so many people in this world, REPENT and turn away from your evil ways. Turn to Jesus Christ who will set you free."
The devil has blinded so many people in this world, REPENT and turn away from your evil ways. Turn to Jesus Christ who will set you free.
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Folau has found himself in hot water for airing his religious views in the past, leading RA boss Raelene Castle to remind him of his responsibilities as a professional.
After the superstar fullback tweeted his opposition to same-sex marriage, Castle met with the former NRL and AFL player.
I love and respect all people for who they are and their opinions. but personally, I will not support gay marriage.
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''Rugby Australia has got a policy and position of inclusion and using social media with respect,'' Castle said.
Despite sponsors reportedly threatening to walk away from Rugby Australia, Folau wasn't sanctioned at that time and even signed a new contract with the organisation in February.
Folau's new deal reportedly contained clauses surrounding his use of social media.
According to The Sydney Morning Herald, an agreement was reached last October but took the best part of three months to finalise following "countless meetings and some difficult conversations" with Rugby Australia officials.
It remains to be seen whether Folau will get in strife for his latest social media efforts, but the overall reaction to the posts has been far from positive.
Folau recently became Super Rugby's all-time leading try scorer, passing Doug Howlett's mark of 59 in the Waratahs' loss three-point loss to the Blues.
The outside back has been capped 73 times for the Wallabies, scoring 37 tries.
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