Broncos star 'moving on' from ugly racism scandal

Ezra Mam has broken his silence on the racism scandal that rocked the NRL, admitting he would be open to speaking with Spencer Leniu “when the time is right”.

The 21-year-old was called a “monkey” by the Roosters prop during the opening round of the season in Las Vegas, resulting in widespread support for the Broncos star.

Leniu copped an eight-game suspension over the incident and is yet to return to the field for the Tricolours, while Mam has continued to go about his business.

But ahead of round eight, the young playmaker fronted the media for the first time since the incident and claims he has “moved on” from it.

broncos star 'moving on' from ugly racism scandal

Broncos Ezra Mam reacts during the NRL match between the Sydney Roosters and the Brisbane Broncos at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Saturday, March 2, 2024. (AP Photo/David Becker)

“I think when the time is right we will have a chat, and I appreciate that he wanted to come up and reach out to me,” Mam said during a press conference.

“I’ve moved on from that now – I’ll probably just have a chat to him when I see him.

“I just stick up to what my beliefs are and how I was brought up as a strong cultural man. It’s my identity, that’s the reason I’m here.

“It was a bit tough, but in saying that, it was a long time ago.

“I’m looking forward and being present. I’m not going to talk about it anymore – I’m just going to get on with the season and start playing some good footy.”

Watch the 2024 NRL premiership live and free on Nine and 9Now.

Mam is coming off his best performance of the season against the Raiders, which saw him cross for a try and set up three in a dominant victory for Brisbane.

However, he will miss the side’s clash with the Tigers due to a finger injury, with the Broncos set to welcome back Adam Reynolds in a timely boost.

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