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Qantas…what a bunch of fucking idiots

Officials from Qantas have expressed their apologies after two rugby union fans were rewarded for their commitment to wear black face paint and afro wigs during the Tri Nations decider.

A competition on Twitter invited Wallabies supporters to share how they would demonstrate their backing for the team, offering a chance to win two exclusive tickets to the match against New Zealand at Suncorp Stadium on Saturday night.

The winners of the competition showed up at the game in tribute to their favorite rugby player, Radike Samo, donning Australia’s iconic green-and-gold jersey, with their faces, arms, and legs painted black.

A photo of the pair was shared by Qantas on their official Twitter account.

However, the gesture to show support ignited outrage among Twitter users, who condemned the “blacking up” act as “appalling.”

Promptly, Qantas took down the image and issued an apology to their followers on Sunday morning.

“We understand it caused offense to some people, which is why it was removed. We are really sorry if it has upset anyone,” was the message in the tweet.

In a follow-up tweet, they stated, “We apologize to those who found it offensive, as it was not our intention. It was merely meant to show their support for Radike.”

Responses from Twitter users critiqued the airline’s apology.

“Cut it out with the fauxpologies. Say you’re sorry for posting the photo that did offend people (not if),” one tweet commented.

“What that image represents to most people is appalling.”

On August 22, Qantas had requested entries for the competition, noting that the 140-character tweets would be evaluated based on “creativity … and reference to the Qantas Wallabies football team.”

The airline selected a winner who tweeted, “We will dress as Radike Samo. Complete with Afro Wig, Aus rugby kit and face paint.”

A spokeswoman for Qantas indicated that officials reached out to Samo, who posed with the fans on Saturday night, stating that he was not bothered by the winners’ attire.

“These guys were actually paying me a tribute,” Samo remarked after the Wallabies triumphed over New Zealand.

“It was a bit of fun, and I think it’s great they considered me their favorite Wallaby.

“I had no issue with it whatsoever.

“I was happy to take a photo with them, so I don’t understand why anyone is upset – that kind of reaction is just silly.”

Buford Balony says: Qantas you suck. If Samo doesn’t mind, why do you?

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