12 Jun 2025

Run It championship relocates from Auckland to Dubai after fierce backlash

1:29 pm on 12 June 2025
RUNIT Auckland. Trusts Stadium.

RUNIT Auckland. Trusts Stadium. Photo: Andrew Cornaga / Photosport

The much-maligned 'run it straight' phenomenon is making a move to the Middle East.

The Run It Championship League hosted two trial events in Auckland in May, with the final also planned for the city.

However, following fierce backlash, and the death of a teenager playing an unofficial game, the organisation has relocated from the final Aotearoa to Dubai, with a date yet to be announced.

It made the announcement on its Instagram page which has 180,000 followers.

Last month, 19-year-old Ryan Satterthwaite died after suffering serious head injuries playing a casual version of the game in a backyard with friends.

The game has been heavily criticised by both New Zealand Rugby and Rugby League as well as several neurologists due to its the risk of brain injuiry.

At night two of trials in Auckland, a man appeared to have a seizure after being hit high and slumping to the ground.

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