Demetriou wants life bans from NRL games for racial abusers

South Sydney Rabbitohs coach Jason Demetriou has taken a strong stance against racism after star fullback Latrell Mitchell was racially abused by a fan during the team’s loss to the Panthers on Thursday night.

Speaking in his post-match press conference, Demetriou stated it was not the first time the issue had occurred in Penrith.

Demetriou was steadfast in his response to questions over the incident occurring as Mitchell walked up the tunnel at half-time to the dressing rooms.

“It’s not a claim, it happened,” Demetriou said.

“It’s not the first time we’ve come here as a club and our players have been racially abused.

“Like where does it end? It’s just not on.”

The Rabbitohs coach also called for life bans for those who perpetrate racial abuse.

“I shouldn’t have to be able to come here as a coach and lead a team for players to be abused,” he said.

“We have to stamp it out completely. NRL clubs have to get rid of it and give life bans.”

Demetriou did not comment on the mental health or well-being of Mitchell; however, he did speak to the various issues the 25-year-old faces as an NRL player in the limelight.

“He’s sick of it… why wouldn’t he be? He should be able to come here as a star of our game and not be racially abused,” Demetriou said.

“Who cares what colour he is. It’s just not on.

“I don’t care what jersey he is wearing.

“Latrell answers his critics with his character every week. He continually shows the quality person he is.

“This is not something Latrell just cops on the footy field but something he’s had to deal with his whole life… all Indigenous people do.

“Latrell is a real role model in our game. We love him at our club and he stands for all Indigenous people.”

Demetriou confirmed in the press conference that security staff at the ground located the person who abused Mitchell, as well as confirming Rabbitohs officials, the Panthers and the NRL had been informed of the incident.

While the Panthers did not take a stance on racism in their official response, NRL CEO Andrew Abdo released the following statement:

“Any form of racism or vilification will not be tolerated in our sport. We will not accept this behaviour from anyone.

“We will stand behind our players and commend them for calling out this behaviour.”

The Panthers have confirmed they are working with the NRL Integrity Unit to investigate the matter.

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