Footy Fans Divided Over Ben Roberts-Smith’s Broncos Visit
The Brisbane Broncos have ignited a fervent online discussion after extending an invitation to Ben Roberts-Smith to enter the club’s dressing room following their recent unexpected defeat against the Dragons. Roberts-Smith, a former SAS corporal and Victoria Cross recipient, was observed within the Broncos’ facilities after the team suffered a 30-26 loss at Suncorp Stadium, marking the first time this season they have been beaten by St George Illawarra.
Roberts-Smith later clarified that he attended the match with his daughters as guests of the club. “The Broncos invited my daughters today because of all the things they have been through and we were very grateful,” he stated.
Controversy Erupts Over Guest’s Legal Battles
The visit quickly became a focal point for debate, with supporters and critics clashing over the appropriateness of the Broncos hosting Roberts-Smith while he faces serious criminal allegations. Roberts-Smith was taken into custody at Sydney Airport in April and has been charged with five counts of war crime murder. He has consistently denied these accusations and intends to mount a vigorous defense.
Roberts-Smith attended the Broncos’ 30-26 NRL loss to the Dragons at Suncorp Stadium as a guest. The former SAS soldier was reportedly welcomed into the Brisbane dressing room shortly after the surprising defeat.
Initial observations of online commentary reveal a sharp division of opinion. Many fans have voiced their support for Roberts-Smith, asserting the principle of innocent until proven guilty. Others have hailed him as a war hero and defended the Broncos’ decision to welcome him.
Arguments for the Invitation
Some supporters suggested that Roberts-Smith’s military background and leadership experience could offer valuable insights to players after a disappointing performance. A recurring theme among those who defended the visit was the belief that Roberts-Smith should not be judged before his legal proceedings conclude. “Whatever happened to ‘innocent until proven guilty’?” one fan questioned, with another adding, “Man is innocent until proven guilty.”
Comparisons were also drawn to other players facing legal scrutiny. Several commenters pointed to Broncos player Ezra Mam’s continued presence at the club despite his own well-publicized legal issues. Mam received a fine and had his driver’s license suspended after pleading guilty to driving without a license and testing positive for drugs following a car accident in Brisbane in October 2024. The incident resulted in injuries to a young girl and a significant suspension for Mam before his return to first-grade football.
One fan remarked, “I’d prefer a hero than Ezra Mam in my shed,” highlighting the sentiment for some supporters. Another comment simply stated, “They let Mam in,” drawing a parallel.
Criticism and Concerns
Conversely, critics questioned the Broncos’ decision to invite Roberts-Smith, arguing that the club should have avoided potential controversy given the charges he faces. Some also found the timing of the visit, immediately after a loss, to be questionable.
Negative reactions included descriptions of the decision as “very very poor form,” “tone deaf,” “bloody disgusting,” and “stupid.” Other fans expressed a desire for the club to avoid such situations entirely, especially with the trial still ongoing.
The connection facilitating Roberts-Smith’s presence was reportedly through Adam Walsh, the Broncos’ welfare manager, who is a former SAS soldier. Walsh and Roberts-Smith served together in the military and have reportedly maintained contact since their time in the armed forces.
Expressions of strong support for Roberts-Smith included sentiments like: “He’s a hero!”, “War horse. Always welcome that soldier,” and “They should be proud of having a decorated soldier in their sheds.”
