Israel Folau: 'Gay people bound for hell unless they repent their sins'

By Giuseppe Labellarte, Reporter | 04 April 2018

Australia international Israel Folau is criticised for making comments suggesting that gay people would be sent to hell unless they "repent their sins and turn to God".

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Australia international Israel Folau has caused controversy after making comments suggesting that gay people would be sent to hell unless they "repent their sins".

The Wallabies star shared an Instagram post on Tuesday in reference to the injury sustained on Saturday while playing for the New South Wales Waratahs.

Folau's post, which contained the Bible quote "consider it all joy when you encounter various trials," also had two pictures above the message showing that "your plans" and "God's plans" don't always coincide.

One of the 29-year-old's followers asked him what "God's plan for gay people" would be, to which the full-back replied: "HELL... Unless they repent of their sins and turn to God".

The comment prompted outrage on social media, with people accusing Folau of homophobia, just six months after tweeting his opposition to same-sex marriage ahead of Australia's marriage equality postal vote last year.

Folau is one of Australia's most recognisable rugby union players, and was one of the five finalists shortlisted as World Rugby's player of the year last season.