Foxtel CEO Apologizes for Offensive Gesture

Foxtel's chief executive, Patrick Delany, issued an apology following the emergence of a photo that appeared to show him performing a Nazi salute during a broadcast of Fox Sports' A-League soccer coverage. In an email to staff, Delany expressed his regret, clarifying that the image was taken a decade ago when he was the chief executive of Fox Sports. He acknowledged the photo was "shocking" but claimed it was intended to illustrate a gesture made by Western Sydney Wanderers fans during a chant, rather than to endorse any hateful ideology. Delany's apology emphasized his commitment to combating anti-Semitism, noting his previous involvement in initiatives against racism. He expressed sincere remorse for any hurt caused, particularly to the Jewish community, and recognized the serious implications of his actions. His email highlighted the importance of addressing racism in all forms, reinforcing his stance against anti-Semitism. Lachlan Murdoch, chairperson of News Corp, which owns a majority stake in Foxtel, supported Delany's apology and reiterated the company's commitment to tackling hatred in all its manifestations. Murdoch acknowledged the offense caused by the Nazi salute and emphasized the responsibility of leadership to confront such issues. The incident comes amid heightened scrutiny of hate symbols in Australia, with new laws introduced across all states and territories making the public display of the Nazi salute a criminal offense. This follows federal legislation enacted in January that outlawed hate symbols as part of broader counter-terrorism measures.