Australian Rugby Star Sacked for Posting a Bible Message Reached a Settlement in Lawsuit

Israel Folau

“Israel ‘Izzy’ Folau, Australian Rugby player who was sacked because he posted a Christian message on Instagram, reached a settlement Wednesday in a lawsuit he filed for unfair firing from the team. Although Folau originally sought $14 million, the terms of the settlement remain confidential. Rugby Australia and Rugby NSW also apologized to Israel for sacking him and any ‘hurt or harm’ the firing caused. ‘We are extremely pleased with the settlement reached today,’ Folau continued. ‘With today’s acknowledgment and apology by Rugby Australia, we have been vindicated and can now move on with our lives to focus on our faith and our family. I believe in a God that’s in control of all things. Whatever His will is, whether that’s to continue playing or not, I’m more than happy to do what He wants me to do.’ Earlier this year, Folau posted a statement on Instagram that is based on 1 Corinthians 6:9-10. It stated, ‘Warning. Drunks, Homosexuals, Adulterers, Liars, Fornicators, Thieves, Atheists, Idolaters. Hell Awaits You. Repent! Only Jesus Saves.’ Folau said, ‘First and foremost, I live for God now. Whatever He wants me to do, I believe His plans for me are better than whatever I can think. If that’s not to continue on playing, so be it.’”

“Vindicated: Australian Rugby Star,” The Stream, Dec. 5, 2019

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