Toulouse Olympique release statement condemning ‘sexual assault or inappropriate behaviour’ following Corey Norman ban

Toulouse Olympique have released a statement on Corey Norman following the Australian’s eight-match ban.

The French club released this statement: “During the game that opposed the Warrington Wolves and Toulouse Olympique on August 11th, Corey was accused by one of his opponents of an inappropriate gesture. The RFL Disciplinary Committee classified this action as grade F for other contrary behaviour and sent the player to the RFL tribunal.

“Corey Norman pleaded not guilty, claiming unintentional hand positioning during the tackle. He was nevertheless found guilty in court for having “intentionally placed a hand between the buttocks of an opposing player”.

“No other charge has been brought against the player and the club would like to point out that it strongly condemns all types of sexual assault or inappropriate behaviour.

“Even if the sanction is heavy and ends the player’s season, Corey Norman and TO XIII have decided to accept it.

“The club will make no further comment.”

The player pleaded not guilty but Her Honour Justice Sarah Wright, who chaired the tribunal, explained that she and the two side members – both former players – were “entirely satisfied” that he had intentionally placed a hand between the buttocks of an opposing player.

The incident took place in Toulouse’s relegation four-pointer against the Warrington Wolves last Thursday night with Norman becoming increasingly frustrated during that game about how the end result was developing.

Referee Chris Kendall was given the nod by the touch judge as the former placed Norman on report for ‘inappropriate contact’ which subsequently turned into a Grade F charge and then an eight-game ban.

It means that his time at Toulouse is effectively over in 2022, with Norman also linked to a different club for 2023 and beyond, but it could be a dagger in the hearts of French Super League hopes.