Money flooded in for rugby star Israel Folau Friday after he launched a controversial crowdfunding campaign to pay his legal fees in a battle with Rugby Australia who sacked him for homophobic comments.
Folau, a devout Christian, was fired last month after a Rugby Australia tribunal found him guilty of “high-level” misconduct for posting on social media that “hell awaits” gay people and others he considers sinners.
He has since taken the divisive issue to Australia’s employment watchdog the Fair Work Commission, asserting that he simply posted a message from the Bible.
His case reportedly involves claims of breach of contract and unlawful termination under the Fair Work Act, which protects employees from being sacked because of their religion.
But taking on Rugby Australia in the courts will not be cheap and the 30-year-old is asking supporters for help to raise Aus$3 million (US$2 million), despite previously being one of the highest-paid players in the world.
“I believe the termination of my contract is unlawful, which is why I have started legal proceedings against Rugby Australia and Rugby NSW,” Folau, who played 73 Tests, said in a message on the GoFundMe site Friday.
“In response, Rugby Australia have already said that they will ‘divert significant resources’ to fight me in court.
“I would be very grateful for your support. I have the fight of my life on my hands and every little bit will help,” he added.