Mar 7th, 2019

Mar 7th, 2019

St George Bank is considering pulling out of its long-running sponsorship of the Dragons if Jack de Belin is allowed to play while having sexual assault charges hanging over his head.

Wide World of Sports has learned that senior bank officials are worried about the impact allowing de Belin to play will have on the club’s image, as well as its sponsors.

De Belin went to court yesterday, fighting the NRL’s decision to stand players down while they are awaiting trial on serious offences carrying terms of 11 years or more.

St George Bank has threatened to pull their sponsorship of the Dragons. (AAP)

A ruling is expected next Thursday - the day the NRL season kicks off.

In an embarrassing back down that will help de Belin’s case, the NRL was forced to concede that the NRL’s rule banning players has yet to be put in place.

St George Bank is already worried about its image following the banking Royal Commission and doesn’t want to take another ‘hit’ to its brand.

It is believed bank officials have told the Dragons that they would prefer that de Belin remains on the sidelines until his case is heard.

UPDATE: St George Bank responds in statement

“With any matters relating to player conduct, it is an issue that must be addressed by the NRL, and it is important that we respect the judicial process and don’t interfere with legal proceedings.



"Last year we extended our partnership with St. George Illawarra Dragons for a further three years. This almost four-decade partnership is a proud one that is one of the longest running in Australian sporting history and includes a strong commitment beyond the elite to grassroots rugby league and most recently the women’s team. We look forward to continuing this support."