A Super Rugby Pacific investigation has found that allegations of racial abuse towards Fijian Drua scrumhalf Frank Lomani “could not be substantiated.”
It was alleged that a spectator at AAMI Park had abused Lomani on the sidelines after the was sent off during the April 5 game against the Melbourne Rebels for a nasty elbow to the head of lock Josh Canham.
Stan Sport cameras captured Lomani turning and appearing to react angrily towards comments from the crowd.
A Super Rugby statement said that it had taken the allegations seriously and had conducted its investigation with assistance from the Rebels and Rugby Australia.
“Based on the evidence available the allegation of racial abuse could not be substantiated,” it said.
“While the competition encourages fans to cheer for their team, it expects that respect should always be shown for others… the competition reminds everyone that strict penalties will be enforced for any behaviour that is likely to intimidate, offend, insult, humiliate or discriminate against any other person on the ground of their religion, race, colour or national or ethnic origin.”
The Rebels also issued a statement acknowledging the findings and reiterated the club’s “zero tolerance position” towards anti-social behaviour.
“Rugby prides itself on values of respect and integrity and it is the club’s expectation that spectators adhere to these values.”
The spectator had denied making racist or similar remarks.
Lomani has been suspended from all forms of the game up to and including 26 May 2024.
