CONTENT WARNING: This article discusses allegations of sexual assault.
The Football Club‘s lead guitarist Leah Romero has announced her departure from the band, in the wake of allegations of sexual assault levelled at the band’s singer Ruby Markwell.
Romero issued a statement to press a short time ago confirming she will be ending her association with the band effective immediately, and will be donating all her share of royalties and earnings from the band to charity.
The statement, in full, reads as follows:
“In light of the recent allegations I have decided to no longer continue with The Football Club.
These allegations are incredibly serious and though have been vehemently denied, I will still be departing from the band. I believe that Ruby and everyone involved need to focus on resolving this situation through the appropriate channels, and that the band comes completely secondary to this.I will be donating 100% of my part of royalties and earnings from the band to The Royal Womens Hospital Centre Against Sexual Assault (CASA House), who give support to victims of sexual assault.”
Earlier this morning the band withdrew from all future gigs, including an appearance at Splendour in the Grass earned through a Triple J Unearthed competition.
Markwell has steadfastly denied all allegations directed at her, which have been swirling across social media since last week.
Nonetheless, The Football Club confirmed they will be pausing all band-related activity while the issues are dealt with through the appropriate channels.
Triple J confirmed the band’s withdrawal from Splendour, stating that they felt it was “the right course of action at this time.”
Photo: Sam Orchard, The Football Club/Facebook.
If you or someone you know has experienced sexual assault, call 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732 to speak to a counsellor.
