Wigan Warriors confirm Pride Day for Catalans Dragons fixture after Israel Folau signing

Wigan will celebrate Pride Day when Folau visits with his new team in March

EPA

Tom Dutton28 January 2020

Wigan Warriors have announced their fixture with Catalans Dragons will be 'Pride Day' after the French club confirmed the signing of Israel Folau on Monday.

Folau has switched codes to sign a one-year deal with the Dragons after he was sacked by Rugby Australia for a number of homophobic social media posts.

Folau said: "I'm a proud Christian, my beliefs are personal, my intention is not to hurt anyone and I will not be making further public comment about them.

"I look forward to my return to the great game of rugby league with the Catalans Dragons."

The 30-year-old previously played for Melbourne and Brisbane before switching to Union, and was told he would not be allowed to return to the NRL.

However, the Rugby Football League has confirmed it will not prevent his registration with the Dragons.

Less than 20 minutes after news of the deal broke, Warriors confirmed their March meeting with the Dragons will now be 'Pride Day'.

Wigan players will wear rainbow socks and laces, while LGBTQ+ groups will be invited along for the game.

Wigan Warriors executive director, Kris Radlinski said: "Here at Wigan Warriors we are committed to the core values of Inclusion and Respect.

"Our community foundation have a long history of supporting local LGBTQ+ groups and initiatives, and we want everyone who engages with our game to feel welcome, valued and most of all, respected."