RFL’s Zak Hardaker accused of homophobic abuse again
By Sam Rigby
Rugby League player Zak Hardaker has been accused of using homophobic language for a second time.
The 22-year-old was given a five-match ban earlier this year for calling another player a “fucking fag”, and has now been accused of using similar language during a recent match.
According to BBC News, Hardaker used homophobic language while playing for Leeds Rhinos during their defeat against St Helens on Friday (August 29).
He could face an eight-match ban if found guilty of using offensive language.
The latest accusation follows Hardaker’s visit to Manchester’s Canal Street, where he took part in a Q&A with the LGBT community. He wanted to learn more about the impact of homophobic abuse.
He also trained with local gay rugby team the Manchester Canalsiders – read more here.
He apologised for his use of the anti-gay slur, and said meeting the LGBT community had helped him become a “better person”.
Meanwhile, a recent survey has found that 80% of athletes and spectators have encountered homophobia in sport – click here for the full story.