Major sportswear brand ASICS has cut ties with Israel Folau over the exiled rugby union star's controversial social media posts.
The 30-year-old was found guilty of a high-level breach of his Rugby Australia contract after he said in an April Instagram post that gay people were "sinners", destined for hell.
ASICS - a major sponsor of Rugby Australia since 2014 - now says it's ending its partnership with Folau, who was a long-time ambassador for the brand.
"ASICS is dedicated to sports and its healthy contribution to society," read a statement. "We believe sport is for everyone and we champion inclusivity and diversity.
"While Israel Folau is entitled to his personal views, some of those expressed in recent social media posts are not aligned with those of ASICS.
"As such, our partnership with Israel has become untenable, and he will no longer represent ASICS as a brand ambassador."
The decision to drop Folau comes as the 30-year-old awaits the ruling on whether his multi-year contract worth millions with Rugby Australia will be torn up.
No time frame has been given for the sanction date, but it's understood that a decision could come by the end of the week.
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