'Called me black c**t': NRL player allegedly targeted with racial slur
Gold Coast star Tyron Peachey has alleged he was the target of a horrific racial slur during the Titans’ thrashing of the Newcastle Knights on Friday night.
Despite the lure of a home final, the Knights were comprehensively battered by the Titans on a humid evening at Robina.
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But in a shocking twist to the match, Fox League audio picked up Peachey telling referee Chris Sutton he was the target of an alleged racial slur.
“That back-rower just called me a black c**t,” Peachey alleged.
Sutton asked if Peachey wanted to make an official complaint.
"If you want to make a complaint, tell us who it is and we can deal with it now," Sutton said.
"I need you to tell me who if you want to go on with it or not?"
But Peachey chose to leave the alleged incident, without identifying a name, and ran back to the mark.
NRL to investigate alleged racial slur
In a statement on Saturday, NRL CEO Andrew Abdo said the Integrity Unit is set to investigate the matter.
“We are an inclusive sport and we pride ourselves on our diversity,” Abdo said.
“I have requested the NRL Integrity Unit investigate the allegations as a matter of urgency.
“We will speak to all parties involved in order to get to the bottom of the allegations and ensure a fair and respectful process for all.
“Player welfare is our absolute priority. We will do everything we can to make sure our players feel safe and supported.
“Any form of racism or vilification will not be tolerated in our game.”
The Knights will assist with the NRL's integrity unit probe and will conduct an internal investigation.
The player accused of the comments has denied making any racial remarks or slurs during the match.
On Saturday morning the Titans said they would proceed with the issue but their first priority is for Peachey's welfare.
"Our immediate focus is Tyrone Peachey as the impact of an event like this can have a toll on the individual. Tyrone has our absolute support,” Titans CEO Steve Mitchell said.
"We're extremely proud of our Indigenous heritage.
"The Titans have the highest number of Indigenous players in our top 30 roster of any club in the NRL.
"The contribution of Indigenous players to our club both on and off the field cannot be understated.
"We as a club are committed to eliminating discrimination from our game, and do not stand for any sort of harassment, bullying and victimisation."
With AAP
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