Billy Vunipola: RFU warn England star over homophobic comments

Billy Vunipola has been given a formal warning by the RFU after a homophobic comment was posted on one of his social media accounts last week.

The Saracens and England No. 8 was called in by English rugby’s governing body to discuss a post which said: ‘Man was made for woman to pro create that was the goal no?’ and called for people to "live their lives how God intended”.

Vunipola had also liked a social media post by Australian full-back Israel Folau, who stated that “hell awaits” for “homosexuals.”

An RFU statement read: “Following a meeting between the RFU and Billy Vunipola, the Saracens forward has been issued with a formal warning under RFU rule 5.12 for conduct prejudicial to the interests of the union or the game.”

“The warning will be retained on his disciplinary record for a period of five years and may be taken into account in future disciplinary proceedings,” the statement continued.

“During the meeting the player expressed genuine regret at his public comments and understood that he had caused hurt and offence as a result of his actions. He has been reminded of his responsibilities as an England player and as an ambassador for the game, which values inclusivity and respect.”

Vunipola had already been issued with a formal warning by his club Saracens who conducted their own investigation, but avoided any harsher penalties such as a suspension or fine.

“We recognise the complexity of different belief systems and understand Billy’s intention was to express the word of God rather than cause offence,” said the club in a statement on Monday.

“However, he made a serious error of judgment in publicly sharing his opinion, which is inconsistent with the values of the club and contravenes his contractual obligations. The player has been formally warned about his future conduct.

In his own statement, Vunipola insisted his “intention was never to cause suffering” but did not offer a more significant apology or remove the post which remains on his Instagram account.

Featured from our writers:

• Aubameyang: I prefer playing with Lacazette

• President Trump announces Tiger Woods will receive Presidential Medal of Freedom

• Mo Salah’s thunderbolt seals Liverpool triumph over Chelsea