The Collision Sport: Run Nation Championship in Sydney Sells 5,000 Tickets Despite Head Injury Concerns
The controversial new contact sport, Run Nation Championship (RNC), has sparked debate among concussion experts and excited football players alike. The second edition of the RNC in Sydney turns a rugby league 'hit-up' into a full-fledged sport, with strict rules to prevent head-on collisions.
Newcastle forward Lochlan Piper, a participant in the RNC, embraces the contact and energy of the sport, stating, 'It's how I play football... the contact, the energy. I like the violence of it.'
The sport gained momentum on social media in 2025 and is now aiming for mainstream appeal. The latest RNC event at the Hordern Pavilion is expected to sell out its 5,500-seat venue.
However, sports neurologist Rowena Mobbs advocates for a ban, citing concerns about concussion and mild traumatic brain injury. She warns, 'Medical practitioners and the sporting community have become increasingly aware of the potential devastating impact of mild traumatic brain injuries on people's lives.'
The RNC's rules and regulations are designed to minimize head-on collisions, with Tremaine Fernandez, co-founder and CEO, explaining, 'We've manufactured side-on contact, many markers and rules on the field, and a rigorous player vetting process to avoid the ugly front-on contact that led to concussions in previous versions.'
Despite these measures, Dr. Mobbs questions their effectiveness, suggesting that the sport inherently carries high risks. She states, 'Every time they run up and clash, there's likely to be at least a microscopic brain injury. These are high-risk and harmful activities, and the presence of protocols and practitioners may give an illusion of safety.'
Jayden Young, a headlining athlete, acknowledges the risks, saying, 'Every sport has its pros and cons. I'm used to playing rugby league and its contact. We're aware of the sacrifices and risks we're taking.'
RNC organizers assure participants are covered under insurance and workers' compensation for life-altering injuries. Lochlan Piper praises the rigorous protocols and selection criteria, emphasizing brain safety and the potential for CTE. Tremaine Fernandez's key message to young viewers is clear: 'Do not try this at home. These are trained professionals.'
The debate surrounding the RNC continues, with experts questioning its safety and the potential for brain injuries, while participants and organizers defend its regulated nature and the risks they accept.
