Leniu, 23, acknowledged using a derogatory epithet against Mam, an Indigenous Australian, while playing a game, but he denied meaning it as a racial slur.
According to a National Rugby League (NRL) judiciary panel, Leniu intentionally used the phrase in a racist manner.
It stated that while his regret was “genuine,” a lengthy suspension was required to “send a strong deterrent.”
Leniu, a representative for Samoa who was born in New Zealand but grew up in Sydney, apologised to Mam earlier in the hearing.
“I sincerely apologise to Ezra and his people,” he stated. I truly didn’t mean to say that word, and I can’t believe I did.”
The incident occurred on March 2 at the NRL season opening at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. It was a showcase round meant to entice
He issued the following statement: “Inclusivity and diversity are key and fundamental values of the Sydney Roosters and we respect equally all backgrounds and cultures and will not tolerate any form of racism.”
Racism and demonization have no place in contemporary society, and rugby league will not accept them, according to NRL Chief Executive Andrew Abdo.
“I’ve spoken with Ezra to express my gratitude for standing up and speaking up. Seeing the game come together for him during this difficult time has been heartwarming, and his current well-being is crucial.
“I also want to thank Spencer Leniu for his sincere regrets and apologies, and I ask everyone to think about his well-being following a difficult period in his early career. Being human, we are prone to making mistakes. That’s
New Zealand-born Leniu, who was raised in Sydney and represents Samoa, apologised to Mam earlier in the hearing.
He said: “I really am sorry to Ezra and his people. I can’t believe I used that word but I really didn’t mean it.”
The incident happened during the NRL season-opener on 2 March at the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas – as part of a marquee round aimed at enticing a US audience to Australia’s top-tier competition.
During the game, which the Roosters won 20-10, 21-year-old Mam could be heard telling referee Adam Gee about Leniu’s slur, with another team-mate repeating the accusation.
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