Homophobia investigation into Rugby League star dropped

An investigation into a Rugby League star who was accused for a second time of using homophobic language, has been dropped due to “insufficient evidence”.

Leeds Rhinos star Zak Hardaker was handed a five match ban and a £300 fine in June, after calling a player a “f**king faggot”. He later said the ban made him a “better person”.

However, it was reported earlier in September that the 22-year-old will again be investigated by the Rugby Football League (RFL) again, for alleged homophobic abuse in a match during which the Leeds Rhinos were defeated by St Helens on Friday.

The Rugby Football League dropped the investigation into Zak Hardaker this week.

“The RFL can confirm that no further action will be taken following an investigation into an incident in the First Utility Super League fixture, Leeds Rhinos v St Helens played on Friday August 29,” read an official statement.

“Details of the investigation were presented to the RFL Match Review Panel which concluded that there was insufficient evidence for charges to be brought.”

Hardaker said yesterday that he thought the investigation had been dropped, as he had heard nothing, but that he was unsure.

Following the second allegation, Leeds Chief Executive Gary Hetherington said he thought there was a “witch hunt” by the RFA against Hardaker. 

• Dec 01 2023

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