Super League clubs create veto powers after Folau signing

Super League clubs have "unanimously" approved new powers for its board to block controversial signings as the fallout from Israel Folau's move to Catalans continues.

Folau's recruitment on a one-year deal with the French side came despite frank opposition from rival clubs and both Super League and the RLF, who reluctantly conceded it holds no legal grounds to deny the contract.

At a meeting in Salford overnight, club bosses voted in new powers for Super League's board to refuse registration at its discretion.

"The Super League board accepts the legalities around the RFL's decision to register Israel Folau, and the board has voted unanimously to put in place measures that ensure the Super League has greater authority to stop controversial signings such as this in the future," a statement released on early Thursday morning (AEDT) read.

"As a sport, we have an impressive and enviable track record when it comes to equality, diversity and inclusion and we will continue our great work in those areas."

Catalans chairman Bernard Guasch failed to attend the meeting in the UK, remaining in France on business, despite being specifically requested to do so by the competition's 11 other clubs.

Folau's signing has continued to draw backlash in the English game, with Hull KR chairman Neil Hudgell penning a letter to Catalans last week warning of possible legal action if his club suffered "financial loss" due to the former Wallaby's signing.

As a sport, we have an impressive and enviable track record when it comes to equality, diversity and inclusion

Super League statement on Folau signing

ARLC chairman Peter V'Landys has consistently stated any bid to return Folau to the NRL would not be entertained due to his slurs on social media.

Folau had been scheduled for a media unveiling by Catalans on Wednesday, but that was cancelled with the club opting to conduct their own in-house interview.

"I'm excited to be back playing the game that I grew up playing," Folau said, with the interview focusing solely on his arrival in France and return to rugby league.

"It's been 10 years since I last played rugby league and I'm grateful for the opportunity to be a part of a great organisation."

He briefly acknowledged reservations around his personal beliefs when his signing was announced last week, stating "my beliefs are personal, my intention is not to hurt anyone and I will not be making further public comment about them."

According to Catalans, should Folau express his views publicly his contract will be terminated immediately and the club fined under an agreement with the RFL.

The 30-year-old has begun training with his new Dragons teammates and is a chance of turning out in Sunday's clash with Wakefield.

Folau hasn't played any professional rugby union since being stood down from Waratahs playing duties nine months ago, but may be brought into a Catalans' side beset by injuries to several outside backs.