Israel Folau takes legal action against Queensland Rugby League

Israel Folau is taking legal action against the Queensland Rugby League (QRL) on the grounds of discrimination following the sporting body’s decision not to register the dual international.

Folau’s lawyer, Sam Iskander from Brisbane law firm Alexander Law, said his client had been denied “the opportunity to practice his profession,” according to abc.net.

“All Israel Folau wants to do is play football and be treated like any other person,” Mr Iskander said in a statement.

“His application for registration with the QRL is being dealt with differently to anyone else who has ever sought registration for the Southport Tigers.

“Mr Folau’s now repudiated contract agreement with Catalans has nothing to do with the QRL.”

Mr Iskander said Folau was a victim of discrimination.

“The QRL has no right to discriminate against a player or seek to disadvantage such a player,” he said.

“Never before have we seen a QRL condition put on a player where the player has to give up representative honours and selection. They are also seeking a condition that my client can only play for the Southport Tigers.

“The QRL is effectively seeking to destroy Israel’s professional aspirations. Why is this being done to Israel Folau?”