Date set for Nakarawa to contest Racing contract termination

Leone Nakarawa has been given a date in April to argue his case against his contract termination over the winter by Racing 92. 

The Fijian, who has since rejoined his former club Glasgow, fell foul of the Parisians following his late return from the World Cup in Japan.  

It was on December 6 that Nakarawa was dismissed. He has since lodged the matter before the labour council in France while moving to play his rugby in Scotland. It’s thought likely he will then head to Australia and Super Rugby when the season is over. 

The conciliation hearing between the Fijian and Racing was originally scheduled for February 11, but it was postponed due to a general strike by lawyers. This meeting, which will take place in Paris behind closed doors, will now go ahead on April 7.

In a December 6 statement posted on the Racing website, it alleged: “After a few days thinking about the legal deadlines, Jacky Lorenzetti has decided to break Nakarawa’s contract.

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“This decision, taken in consultation with the sporting director of the club, follows on from the proven disciplinary manoeuvres of Nakarawa who, in particular, did not show up at the resumption of the training programme on October 28.

“Nakarawa, moreover, refused to answer the messages that the club addressed to him after having noted his unjustified absence and was willing to fix the date of his return.

“The abandonment of his post for more than two weeks has been a serious prejudice to Racing… moreover, it is a deplorable example for Racing players as his title of the best player in the 2018 European Cup should have encouraged him to be exemplary.

“At Racing, the only star is the team and the individualistic attitude of Nakarawa is inconceivable. It indicates a total lack of team spirit and a characterised insubordination. In the interests of preserving the institution of Racing, this decision of rupture was imperative.”

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