National Rugby League (NRL) Chief Executive Andrew Abdo has made the following statement after New Zealand Warriors player Marcelo Montoya pleaded guilty to a Contrary Conduct charge at the judiciary this evening.
“Rugby League is a game for everyone, that’s what I love most about our game.
“I’m proud that we bring people together.
“It doesn’t matter where you are born, your gender or sexual orientation – rugby league is for everyone.
“That’s why Indigenous Round, Women In League Round, Multicultural Round and participating in the Mardi Gras every year are so important to us. These events represent and celebrate who we are and what we stand for.
“The homophobic language used in Friday night’s game between the Warriors and the Cowboys was unacceptable. It will not be tolerated. I commend the Match Review Committee for referring the matter to the Judiciary and I support a suspension being imposed.
“I’d like to acknowledge Marcelo Montoya for accepting responsibility for his actions and his genuine remorse. Marcelo made a poor mistake and he will learn from this experience.
“This is a reminder to all players that the game will not tolerate such conduct.”
