TORONTO OWNER’S ALLEGED REMARK TO LIONS STAR

THE RFL has launched an investigation into allegations of racist abuse by Toronto owner David Argyle directed at Swinton forward Jose Kenga.

The Lions front-rower posted on Twitter that Argyle (below) approached him after the April Championship meeting between the clubs and asked, “Do they allow black people in Swinton?”

Kenga says the incident was witnessed by teammate Jack Hansen, and insists it should not be brushed under the carpet.

Kenga said: “I said you can’t say that in this day and age and he just laughed and brushed it off, and handed over a drink token to me.

“People who are racist ought to be held accountable for their actions.

“I have never felt so little in my life and can’t believe that people can still have such a racist mind.

“To make the comment is one thing, but to laugh it off is another, which made me feel There’s no room for ignorance or racism.”

Argyle issued his own statement a matter of hours later “unreservedly apologising” for the incident. He said: “As soon as I was made aware of Jose Kenga’s tweet relating to our conversation after the match in Toronto on 28th April 2019, I reached out to the Swinton Lions senior management team.

“I have requested to speak directly to Jose and apologise personally for my words, which I hope to do as soon as possible. I deeply regret making Jose feel terrible, and must stress that it was never my intention to do so.

“We take great pride in making Toronto an amazing experience for all travelling teams and their loyal fans. We try to make everyone feel comfortable and welcome.

“However, that day I fell short on delivering those standards.

“I take full responsibility and I want to unreservedly apologise to Jose, Swinton Lions, Toronto Wolfpack and our great fans for my comments.”

The RFL’s compliance department is looking into the matter, and says it has zero tolerance to racist behaviour of any kind.

Kenga is being supported by his club Swinton, who are in contact with both the RFL and Toronto.

A club statement read: “Swinton Lions wish to make clear our 100 per cent support for Jose, as well as utterly condemning all racial abuse or discrimination on any grounds whatsoever.

“Such behaviours have no place in society, let alone in a family sport such as rugby league.” powerless. intolerance,