Hiring for 'vibes': Can you reject a job applicant because they support a rival sporting team?

A South Africa fan looks on during a Rugby Championship match between the All Blacks and Springboks. (Image: Getty)

Fri, 19 Sep 2025

It has been a sombre week for New Zealand rugby supporters as we come to terms with the All Blacks’ historic loss to the Springboks and the Warriors losing to the Penrith Panthers.If a strident fan were to have a job interview with a candidate who supports one of those opposing teams this week, they might find that they do not ‘vibe’ with that person.But can you legally reject a job candidate because they support a rival sporting team to yours?According to a recent UK Employment Tribunal ruling, the answer is yes – at le...

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