Brisbane Broncos’ Ezra Mam files complaint against Spencer Leniu for alleged racial comment during match against Sydney Roosters; incident under NRL investigation.

During Brisbane’s 20-10 loss to the Sydney Roosters in their season-opener in Las Vegas, Ezra Mam lodged a formal complaint against Spencer Leniu to referee Adam Gee. Mam alleged that Leniu made a racial comment towards him during a flare-up involving Leniu and Kotoni Staggs with just over 10 minutes remaining in the match.

Referee Adam Gee informed both team captains, James Tedesco and Adam Reynolds, about the complaint. The incident was noted to be on report and would be dealt with after the match. Despite the seriousness of the accusation, tensions continued to escalate on the field, with Patrick Carrigan and Mam involving themselves in physical altercations with Roosters players.

Post-match, Brisbane coach Kevin Walters expressed support for Mam, stating they would leave the matter in the hands of the NRL for investigation and adjudication. Adam Reynolds also echoed Walters’ sentiments, emphasizing the club’s zero-tolerance policy towards racism.

Spencer Leniu, however, dismissed the allegation when speaking to Triple M after the game, stating that there was “nothing in it” and that it was all “just fun and games.” Roosters, coach Trent Robinson refrained from commenting further on the incident, emphasizing the need for the formal process to take its course.

The incident underscores the ongoing efforts to combat racism in sports and the importance of a swift and thorough investigation into such allegations. Both teams await the NRL’s decision on the matter as they continue their respective campaigns in the season.