Sacked Wallabies star Israel Folau now says he is set to lose $14 million as a result of his sacking by Rugby Australia, according to new court documents.
The documents also claim the Wallabies would have put in a “superior performance” if Folau was selected for the 2019 Rugby World Cup and he could have possibly captained “a trophy-winning Wallabies team”.
The damages figure has been increased to $14 million from a previous estimate of $10 million, according to an amended statement of claim released on Wednesday.
Folau, a hardline Christian, claims he was wrongfully dismissed by Rugby Australia and Rugby NSW after a controversial Instagram post in April condemning “drunks” and “homosexuals” and warning “hell awaits” them.
In the amended statement of claim to the Federal Circuit Court, Folau details the income he has lost since Rugby Australia tore up his contract.
The list includes estimates of between $450,000 and $1.25 million a year in “post-playing career monetary benefits” over a span of 15 to 25 years.
It also details Folau’s belief that he could have earned more if he was selected as Wallabies Test captain in the future.
“Additional post-playing career monetary benefits to be derived from building upon (his) record of achievement … and two additional Rugby World Cups,” the claim states.
“Including a superior performance at the 2019 Rugby World Cup by the Wallabies than what was achieved without Folau, and possible captainship of a trophy-winning Wallabies team.”
The document also includes fresh claims that Rugby Australia was told by a senior Wallaby that sacking Folau could offend Polynesian players and divide the team.
“Before the hearing was conducted before the Tribunal, a senior player had told Ms (chief executive Raelene) Castle and Mr (coach Michael) Cheika that the termination of Mr Folau was likely to cause division amongst the Wallabies and that Christian Polynesians in the team were offended by the actions of Rugby Australia,” the claim states.
In a separate social media post, Folau has also claimed transgender people were evil and should repent.
RA says Folau’s expressions of faith had always been supported “provided that these were done in a respectful and inclusive manner”.
Folau’s contract with RA was terminated in May.
