NRL indefinitely ban young fan who racially abused Latrell Mitchell

The NRL has come down hard on the spectator who racially abused South Sydney superstar Latrell Mitchell, handing them an indefinite ban.

The Rabbitohs fullback copped some horrible abuse as he left the field at half-time during the round-two matchup against the Penrith Panthers.

The fan was identified as a teenager wearing a Sydney Roosters kit and was ejected from the game by security and police at the time.

The incident was investigated by both the NRL and NSW Police with the former issuing a warning.

However, the rugby league competition has come down hard on the young fan.

They issued a statement, saying: “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.

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

The incident occurred at the Panthers’ BlueBet Stadium.

The Penrith side also released a statement supporting the decision to ban the offender.

They said: "Panthers will continue to work towards making all players, staff and fans feel safe and welcome at games at BlueBet Stadium.”

South Sydney coach Jason Demtriou spoke strongly about the abuse and even called for a ban for life for the fan.

He said: “It's not the first time we've come here (to Penrith) as a club and our players have been racially abused.

"Where does it end? It's just not on.

"I shouldn't have to come here as a coach and lead a team of players here to be racially abused.

"It's not what our game is about and we have to stamp it out completely. NRL, clubs, they have to get rid of it.

"Life bans. Anyone wants to make racial abuse, get them out of the game. We don't want their support."

Late last month, future South Sydney player Jack Wighton suffered online racial abuse in the wake of the announcement of his move to the Rabbitohs.

The NRL community quickly came out in support of Wighton and condemned any such behaviour.

Featured Image Credit: NRL/Supplied. Nine/Today Show.

Topics: Australia, NRL, Rugby League

Jayden Collins

Jayden Collins is a Journalist at SPORTbible. He has worked across multiple media platforms in areas such as sport, music, pop culture, entertainment and politics. He is part of the editorial team for LADbible Australia.