Overview

• Sydney Roosters prop Spencer Leniu has been suspended for eight matches by the NRL after being found guilty of using a racial slur against Brisbane Broncos' Ezra Mam.
• Leniu claimed ignorance of the slur's racial connotations, stating he believed it was banter among players of color.
• The NRL and the Sydney Roosters have emphasized their commitment to player education on racism, with additional training planned following the incident.
• Rugby league great Johnathan Thurston criticized the eight-match ban as insufficient, advocating for a half-season suspension for racial slurs.
• The incident has sparked broader discussions on racism in sports and the effectiveness of current educational programs.