Teenager at centre of Latrell Mitchell racism saga handed indefinite ban by NRL

The NRL has slapped a massive ban on the teenager accused of abusing South Sydney superstar Latrell Mitchell. Here’s how the young man can reverse the NRL’s decision.

The teenager responsible for racially vilifying Latrell Mitchell will be forced to apologise to the South Sydney superstar before he is allowed to attend another rugby league game.

The NRL handed down its sanctions against the teenager on Wednesday, effectively handing out an indefinite ban pending the completion of a series of steps to address his behaviour.

As well as apologising to Mitchell, the teenager will be required to complete appropriate training and education in respectful behaviour and cultural awareness before being allowed back into a rugby league ground.

Mitchell was called a “black dog” as the Souths and NSW star was heading to the BlueBet Stadium dressing rooms at halftime of the Rabbitohs’ game against Penrith in round two.

After being identified by South Sydney players including Mitchell, the fan responsible fled the scene. Police eventually identified the person responsible and completed their own investigation into the allegations, issuing the teenager with a warning.

The teen who racially abused Latrell Mitchell has copped an indefinite ban.

The NRL has now handed down their findings and while they opted against handing out a life ban, they made it clear that racism was not acceptable in rugby league.

“The NRL confirmed today it had issued a notice intending to ban a spectator from attending NRL events until such time as the young person can establish that sufficient steps have been taken to address their behaviour,” the statement said.

“These steps will include apologising and completing appropriate training and education in respectful behaviour and cultural awareness.

“The NRL thanks Latrell Mitchell for reporting this matter and reaffirms that no form of vilification will be tolerated in rugby league.”

The spectator at the centre of the claims has five business days to respond to the notice. Penrith also issued a statement in which they supported the decision by the NRL.

“Panthers will continue to work towards making all players, staff and fans feel safe and welcome at games at BlueBet Stadium,” the statement said.

Latrell Mitchell was allegedly targeted in the tunnel at BlueBet Stadium.

Mitchell has vowed to maintain the rage against racism in rugby league, although he conceded the latest incident had taken its toll during a recent interview with this newspaper.

“The sad thing is it is disappointing to still be happening,” Mitchell said.

“I know a lot of people want me to shut my mouth and do my job. At the end of the day that is not what it is about.

“It is about spreading awareness. I want to be known as a bloke who didn’t just do his job, but did more than what a rugby league player does.

“That is the impact I want to have on communities.”

The NRL integrity unit is believed to be also investigating a recent incident in which Mitchell’s good friend and future teammate Jack Wighton was racially vilified on social media.

Originally published as Teenager at centre of Latrell Mitchell racism saga handed indefinite ban by NRL