The upcoming Run Nation Championship, featuring a controversial "run-it-straight" event, has been shut down by the NSW Supreme Court just two days before its scheduled Saturday commencement. The decision came after organizers attempted to argue that the event, which involves competitors running directly at each other to collide, was not a combat sport under state law.
Justice Andrew Colman upheld the Combat Sports Authority's decision to cancel the event, stating that the "essence of the activity is the collision between them." He ruled that the intense physical contact was the sole necessary element of the sport, classifying it as a combat sport. Run Nation had been aware of the Authority's concerns since May 29, 2026, but failed to satisfy the regulator that it had addressed them.
Scheduled to take place at Sydney's Randwick Racecourse with tickets priced at $999, the event had attracted several former professional football players, including Dylan Napa and Sam Kasiano. The cancellation means thousands of spectators will be disappointed.
"Run-it-straight" contests have gained popularity in recent years, particularly among young rugby league fans on social media. However, the sport has drawn criticism from organizations like Synapse, which warns of the potential for severe concussions and long-term neurological damage. These concerns are underscored by the death of 19-year-old Ryan Satterthwaite from New Zealand in 2025, who suffered a fatal head injury during an informal game with friends.
Run Nation CEO Tremaine Fernandez stated that the ruling would not end the sport, asserting that "RNC is here to stay." He announced that Saturday's event would be postponed to later in 2026, with ticketholders given the option for refunds or to use their tickets for the rescheduled event. Fernandez expressed excitement about potential future collaborations with the Combat Sports Authority. The court also ordered Run Nation to pay legal costs associated with the review.