Waugh shuts door on Folau homecoming
03/31/2025 06:29 AM
Rugby Australia CEO Phil Waugh rules out any chance of Israel Folau playing rugby Down Under, six years after his sacking by the Wallabies.
Folau had expressed interest in playing for the trans-Tasman invitational side against the British & Irish Lions in July, but Waugh has dismissed the idea, citing eligibility rules.
"With the Australia-New Zealand game, it's eligible Australian and New Zealand players," the 79-Test former Wallaby flanker told News Corp.
"For the First Nations and Pasifika game, it's players in Australian Super Rugby squads, with some exceptions from Moana Pasifika and [Fijian] Drua if needed."
ICYMI – Folau eyes 'emotional' Aussie rugby return
Waugh stressed that the RA would honour its agreement with the Lions tour. "We’ve got a long-form agreement which stipulates the rules, and in the spirit of good partnership, we’ll adhere to those rules."
Folau, who now plays in Japan, was axed by the RA in 2019 after posting a social media meme that claimed "hell awaits" homosexuals. His dismissal led to a costly legal battle, with the sporting body eventually reaching a multimillion-dollar settlement.
Despite his controversial exit, the 35-year-old remains hopeful of playing in front of Australian fans again.
"I've always been proud to wear the gold jersey," he told News Corp last week. "If the opportunity came about, it would be exciting."
Photo: David Rogers/Getty Images
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