LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
NRL bigwig Andrew Abdo has hit back after the league copped a blow with the loss of a 17-year partnership following a controversial move involving the 'tone deaf' Donald Trump.
The Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) chair Peter V'landys made a passionate plea on American breakfast TV in a bid to convince the US President to grace the season-opening games in Las Vegas, arguing that it would be priceless exposure for the sport.
However, anti-domestic violence organization White Ribbon condemned the decision and decided to sever ties with the NRL.
In a letter obtained by AAP, White Ribbon cited the league's association with individuals known for abusive behavior towards women as the reason for the partnership's termination.
Although the letter did not explicitly mention Donald Trump, it is believed that the controversy surrounding the Vegas invitation prompted the charity's drastic action.
The former President has a tarnished record, having been found guilty of sexual assault and defamation in a legal case back in 2023.
In a separate development, the Canberra Raiders reached out to UFC supremo Dana White with an offer to perform the ceremonial Viking Horn ritual before their upcoming game.
The season kicks off in Vegas on Sunday morning with the Raiders facing off against the Sharks, followed by a clash between Cronulla and reigning champions Penrith later in the day.
Despite the drama surrounding Dana White's personal life, he is unable to attend the Vegas games due to prior commitments.
Meanwhile, Donald Trump has yet to respond to V'landys' invitation to attend the league spectacle as a special guest.
Addressing the fallout from White Ribbon's decision, NRL CEO Andrew Abdo stood by the invitation extended to the former US President and noted that a similar offer was made to Joe Biden last year.
Abdo emphasized that the league remains neutral when it comes to American politics and sees the invitation as a strategic move to engage international audiences by leveraging the profile of the US leader.