Troy Bowker is leaving his co-ownership of the Hurricanes rugby franchise after making controversial comments on social media.
Photo: Photosport
In a statement tonight, Bowker announced that he had accepted an offer for his shares in the franchise, reportedly a 12.5 per cent stake. He said that he had made a decision in February to exit his shareholding by 31 August due to the terms of the current license ending.
"I have now notified the Chairman that I intend to accept the offer which has been made for my shares on terms with which I am very happy," Bowker said.
Bowker took aim at Sir Ian Taylor in a recent social media post, accusing the animation entrepreneur of Ngāti Kahungunu and Ngāpuhi, of "sucking up to the left Māori loving agenda", after Taylor posted a response to National leader Judith Collins' backing for a referendum on the use of the name Aotearoa for New Zealand.
The Hurricanes and the NZ Rugby union both released statements on the issue saying they did not support the views of Bowker.
Hurricanes halfback TJ Perenara also condemned Bowker, saying his comments contained "underlying racism."
"My discussion on Linkedin In with Sir Ian Taylor was never intended to involve rugby or my involvement with the Hurricanes as a shareholder and board director," Bowker said in his statement.
"I wish to make it clear that I stand behind the theme of what I said."