Saracens warn Billy Vunipola over his defence of Israel Folau’s homophobic comments

Rugby Australia sacked Folau, ruling him out of the upcoming World Cup, after the winger’s latest comments on Instagram

Saracens have formally warned Billy Vunipola over his controversial social media posts which defended the Australia international Israel Folau’s homophobia.

Rugby Australia sacked Folau, ruling him out of the upcoming World Cup, after the winger’s latest comments on Instagram which warned: “Hell awaits Drunks, Homosexuals, Adulterers, Liars, Fornicators, Thieves, and Atheists.”

Vunipola, who like Folau is of Christian faith, defended Folau amid a backlash against the Australian. The England forward wrote: “He’s saying how we live our lives needs to be closer to how God intended them to be. Man was made for woman to procreate, that was the goal no?”

Saracens made clear that they believe Vunipola made “a serious error of judgement in publicly sharing his opinion, which is inconsistent with the values of the club and contravenes his contractual obligations”.

Sarries added: “At Saracens, we are one family, open to all with the firm view that everyone should be treated equally with respect and humility. We recognise the complexity of different belief systems and understand Billy’s intention was to express the word of God rather than cause offence.”Vunipola also released a statement insisting he has “love towards all people”.

He said: “I can see that my recent post has hurt people. My intention was never to cause suffering. My intention was to express my belief in the word of God. These beliefs are a source of great strength, comfort and guidance in my life. This is deeply personal and does not represent the views of my team.

“Anyone who knows me, knows I live with kindness and love towards ALL people. I have faith. My Christian faith has sustained me through the ups and many downs of my life. God has given and continues to give me many reasons in life to be grateful.”