The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua maintains their stand in supporting and maintaining a zero tolerance towards any anti-social behaviour by spectators, particular racial abuse.
This is after the Super Rugby Pacific Competition Management concluded their formal investigation of an allegation of racial abuse following the Super Rugby Pacific Round 7 match between Melbourne Rebels and Fijian Drua on 5th May.
A thorough investigation was completed by SANZAAR, Rugby Australia and the Melbourne Rebels and based on the evidence available the allegation of racial abuse could not be substantiated.
Fijian Drua CEO Mark Evans acknowledged that it has been a challenging time for Frank Lomani and the Drua organisation.
He says Lomani was deeply upset by the incident and as a club, they share his concerns.
Evans says Lomani is a respected leader within the Drua and a man who cares deeply about his culture, teammates and the next generation of players.
He adds given Frank’s character and his immediate reaction on the night, they do not doubt his veracity for a moment.
However, the Drua understand these types of incidents can be hard to verify and substantiate satisfactorily, so they accept SANZAAR’s position.
The Drua CEO says rugby prides itself on the values of respect and integrity and spectators must adhere to these values while attending matches.
He is encouraging the Fijian Drua supporters to continue to support their team with passion, energy and respect.
Evans says it is well known that we have the most passionate fan base in the Super Rugby Pacific competition, and they will continue to try to ensure all Drua home games are inclusive, safe, family friendly and high energy.
Meanwhile, the Drua will host the Hurricanes at 7.05pm Friday at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva.
In other Super Rugby Pacific matches, the Reds will face the Highlanders at 9.35pm Friday, the Blues will meet the Brumbies at 7.05pm Saturday, and the Force will take on the Crusaders at 9.35pm Saturday.
