‘Strictly enforced’: NRL chief’s letter to clubs as powerbrokers clamp down on referee criticism
The NRL has reportedly issued a warning to clubs, informing them of plans to introduce rules against coaches and club officials making comments on match officials.
NRL chief executive Andrew Abdo reportedly sent his caution letter to club bosses this week, hoping to reduce negative attention on referees from media and fans according to Code Sports.
The NRL had previously banned any talk from coaches on match officials prior to the 2025 season, with that stranglehold being loosened in recent years.
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Only comments that were deemed excessive or questioned the integrity of officials were punished, with no punishments dished out to any coaches in 2024.
“You may recall the club CEOs meeting during Magic Round last year where we discussed the public focus on officiating and comments by coaches that at times only serve amplify fan and media attention on what in many cases are simply differences of opinion,” Abdo wrote.
“The consensus at the meeting was the NRL should more strictly enforce the public comment rules in relation to match officials.
“Please can I ask you to advise your head coaches and all club officials, that the existing public comment provisions of the NRL rules will be more strictly enforced in 2025.
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“This includes, but is not limited to, post-match media conferences, radio and television interviews, and club or personal social media posts.”
The NRL also scrapped Graham Annesley’s weekly review of contentious decisions.
Bulldogs general manager Phil Gould was last season handed a punishment in the form of a breach notice for comments he made on Channel 9’s 100% Footy.
A $20,000 fine was also issued, which was suspended for 12 months.
