An investigation into alleged racial abuse of Fijian Drua halfback Frank Lomani by a Melbourne Rebels fan during a Super Rugby Pacific match has found the claim could not be substantiated.
Super Rugby Pacific competition management, with the assistance of the Rebels and Rugby Australia, opened an investigation following the round seven match in Melbourne earlier this month.
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Lomani was sent from AAMI Park after elbowing Rebels lock Josh Canham in the head and the Fijian international appeared to react to a member of the crowd.
The Drua issued a statement that Lomani was racially abused, with their coach Mick Byrne calling for a life ban for the perpetrator.
However the investigation could not affirm the allegations.
"Super Rugby Pacific Competition Management was made aware of an allegation of racial abuse following the Super Rugby Pacific Round 7 match between Melbourne Rebels and Fijian Drua at AAMI Park on Friday 5 May," SANZAAR's statement read. "Any report of racial abuse is taken seriously by the Competition and Competition Management, with the assistance of the Rebels and Rugby Australia, commenced an immediate investigation into the matter.
"A thorough investigation has now been completed into the allegation and based on the evidence available the allegation of racial abuse could not be substantiated.
"The Competition maintains a zero tolerance towards any anti-social behaviour by spectators and, while the Competition encourages fans to cheer for their team, it expects that respect should always be shown for others."
The Melbourne Rebels acknowledge the conclusion of the investigation by Super Rugby Pacific competition management into an allegation of racial abuse at the Round 7 game against Fijian Drua at AAMI Park," the Rebels added.
"In line with the competition statement issued earlier today, the Rebels maintain a zero tolerance position towards anti-social behaviour by spectators at all club fixtures.
"Rugby prides itself on values of respect and integrity and it is the club’s expectation that spectators adhere to these values.
"The Rebels further remind all spectators that strict penalties will be enforced for any behaviour that is likely to intimidate, offend, insult, humiliate or discriminate against any other person on the ground of their religion, race, colour or national or ethnic origin.
