NRL Grand Final winner SACKED for controversial post

Penrith Panthers have terminated the NRL playing contract of Tyrone May with immediate effect.

The Panthers Board of Directors concluded May’s conduct following the 2021 NRL Grand Final constituted a serious breach of his contractual obligations.

The Board also gave consideration to previous breaches in making the decision to terminate his contract at this time.

“As a club we understand our responsibilities to the game, our corporate partners, our members and fans, and the wider Rugby League community,” Panthers CEO Brian Fletcher said.

“The Board observed due process in this matter and considered all relevant factors before reaching its final decision.

“Panthers will coordinate with the NRL to ensure Tyrone receives access to any support services he needs moving forward.”

It came after the 25-year-old uploaded a post to the social media giant Instagram following the Panthers’ grand final win over South Sydney in which May made reference to his previous convictions of recording an intimate image without consent.

The photo uploaded by May following the Grand Final showed the utility man alongside Panthers coach Ivan Cleary leaving Parramatta Local Court before his conviction.

Canadian rapper Drake’s lyrics were emblazoned over the post which said: “And the dirt that they threw on my name turned to soil and I grew up out it. Time for y’all to figure out what y’all gon’ do about it. Love my brothers”.

He was fined $7,500 by the NRL and was stood down by Penrith but the club has now torn up his contract.