Personal reasons mean Israel Folau is not with Catalans Dragons – not a move
ISRAEL Folau has not walked away from Catalans Dragons as he is linked with a return to rugby union – and will not.
The controversial dual-code star has been touted for a move to a 15-a-side club in France.
But the Dragons, who would be due a fee as he is under contract for 2021, insisted personal, rather than career, reasons are why he is in Australia.
And SunSport understands that is the case, with no definitive date set for when he needs to be back – meaning he may miss the start of the season on March 25.
Sources say they are prepared to wait for as long as it takes for him to return.
Covid-19 travel restrictions also mean even if the 31-year-old could head back, he cannot.
They said: “The club and Israel Folau have been in constant dialogue since Christmas regarding a personal family situation.
“This along with Covid restrictions are currently preventing his return to France.”