Israel Folau decides not to appeal Code of Conduct verdict

Israel Folau has decided not to appeal against Rugby Australia’s decision to terminate his four-year contract for his recent social media posts, but a protracted legal battle in the courts remains a possibility.

Rugby Australia issued a statement saying:

"The 72-hour window for Israel Folau to appeal his high-level Code of Conduct breach and sanction has expired.

"As Folau has not notified the panel of his intention to appeal, the Code of Conduct process has now formally concluded.

"With the Code of Conduct matter complete, Folau’s employment contract will be terminated."

Rugby Australia chief Raelene Castle said at the time the decision would have ramifications across the sporting world.

“This is a decision that will change the landscape for sport across Australia and perhaps internationally,” she said. “It will be landmark, it will be important, and it is a big decision.

“He is a very important player in our game and he has been for a long period of time and we wanted to make sure we took the time to get it right.”