Newcastle Knights star Mitch Barnett has released a strong statement condemning racism after he was cleared of making a racial slur towards Tyrone Peachey.
An investigation into allegations made by Peachey against Barnett following last Friday's Titans-Knights clash was closed after the NRL's Integrity Unit was unable to make a firm judgement based on available evidence.
It was alleged Barnett called Peachey a "black c***" when the pair collided in a tackle, which prompted the Titans star to make an on-field complaint, however they were events Barnett has firmly denied.
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Both Barnett and Peachey have been ordered by the NRL into a conciliation process after the NRL was unable to finalise the matter, following interviews conducted with nearby players and officials.
In a club statement, Barnett said it was "heartbreaking" to be accused of racism and denied racially vilifying Peachey.
"Racism has no place in society, and no place in the game," Barnett said.
"I am many things. A son, a husband, a teammate.
"I am not a racist and I did not racially abuse Tyrone Peachey.
"I cannot be clearer on this.
"To be accused of such a thing is heartbreaking.
"I am far from perfect and have many flaws, but I did not do what I was accused of.
"It’s not who I am."
While denying Peachey's accusations, Barnett applauded his Titans counterpart for speaking out about the issue and welcomed the conversation about racism in the game that has followed.
"While I am shattered to be accused of such an act, one positive to come from all of this is it has generated a conversation around racism.
"It is a conversation that needs to continue and extends beyond rugby league.
"Players should call out discrimination and I support Tyrone in speaking out.
"I hope Tyrone continues to receive support from the game and his Club.
"However, that does not change the fact I did not say what I was accused of saying.
"While in this case, there was a misunderstanding, I hope this situation has made everyone more conscious of the evils of racism."
