Folau’s bankroller threatens court if registration is denied

Folau’s proposed bid to play rugby league for the Southport Tigers in Gold Coast’s A-Grade competition this year is being bankrolled by Palmer’s Mineralogy company.

The 32-year-old dual international is hoping to play for the Tigers alongside brothers John and Eni in the third-tier competition after being outcast by Rugby Australia for a series of controversial social media posts. But, Palmer has gone one step further, indicating he wants Folau to play for Southport against Burleigh Bears at Pizzey Park this Saturday.

The QRL has previously indicated it would consider Folau’s application to be registered “in line with its rules and processes” but Palmer says he’ll take legal action if the decision isn’t made by the middle of this week.

“Israel doesn’t drink, smoke or take drugs. He has never been charged with a criminal offence” Palmer said.

“He loves his wife and his son. He has a rugby playing record second to none.

“If he is not registered by Wednesday, I believe he will issue an injunction in the Federal Court of Australia against the QRL for their discrimination against him on religious grounds.”

Folau is currently under contract and registration with French club Catalans Dragons after returning under a cloud of controversy to the 13-man code last year. And, the Dragons are said to be considering legal action of their own in the wake of Folau’s Southport announcement.

Catalans’ football manager Alex Chan said they expected Folau to return at some stage during the year having granted him compassionate leave to deal with family matters in Australia.

Palmer has previously dismissed any suggestion Catalans have a case for compensation.