Allowed to stay in UK, for now: Hendre Fourie
Former England and Sale flank Hendre Fourie has been told he does not have to leave Britain after retiring from rugby.
Fourie - who won eight caps for England and has lived in the UK for eight years - thought he only had 60 days left in the country after his contract with Sale was terminated following two failed operations to try repair a serious shoulder injury.
But the UK Border Agency informed the South African forward on Tuesday that the process had not yet been started, as well as offering him options that would enable him to remain in the United Kingdom.
"We have not curtailed Mr Fourie's visa at this time and he is not required to leave the UK," a UK Border Agency spokesman told the Daily Telegraph.
"His employment contract with Sale Rugby Club has been terminated and his employer has rightly informed UKBA of this decision. We are considering what action to take next.
"If an individual's circumstances change and they no longer meet the terms of their specific visa they can apply for a visa of a different type.
"Mr Fourie has been informed of the process and the various options available to him. It is entirely up to him if he chooses to explore any of them further."
Fourie's "sports people visa" was due to expire in June but he said earlier in this week that he would love to stay in the country and pursue a career in teaching.
Comments
rugby_rockstar says...
Nothing like a bit of negative publicity to get public bodies jumping to do the right thing.
I do think letting him stay is the honourable thing to do.
Posted 09:38 09th January 2013
lawynd says...
So, Fourie wasn't being forced out and evidently is just a complete plum. Colour me unsurprised by this turn of events.
I wonder if we'll get an apology for the 'terrorists' quip?
Posted 09:34 09th January 2013
DrDeath says...
Bit quick off the mark to start moaning in public, having not even applied to stay!!
Sounds like he needs a bit of help with the paperwork, typical forward!!
Posted 09:21 09th January 2013
hellovanite says...
Haha... "If an individual's circumstances change and they no longer meet the terms of their specific visa they can apply for a visa of a different type"
So let me get it straight you are all good with foreign players representing England in the sporting arena, but as soon as they can't do that anymore they need a visa extension or it's jog on my son. Absolutely classic... worth of the jersey in terms of national patronage, zero!
Posted 08:53 09th January 2013