NZ Warriors’ Richard Agar suspended over media clash

New Zealand Warriors assistant coach Richard Agar has been hit with a breach notice by the NRL following an altercation with an accredited journalist during Round 1 of the 2025 season.

The league announced on Monday that Agar had breached the NRL Code of Conduct, resulting in a $10,000 fine—half of it suspended—a three-game suspension, and mandatory education and training.

The ban prevents Agar from performing any coaching duties on match days and prohibits him from travelling with the team for away fixtures during his suspension.

Although details remain scarce, sources indicate the incident stemmed from a tense exchange in the post-match media area, where emotions ran high following the Warriors’ season opener.

Witnesses suggest the discussion escalated quickly, prompting intervention from club officials.

Agar, a highly experienced coach with a background in both the NRL and Super League, was brought into the Warriors’ setup to assist head coach Andrew Webster in building on the team’s strong 2024 campaign.

However, this early-season controversy has now created an unwanted distraction for the club.

With five business days to respond to the breach notice, Agar has the option to challenge the ruling, but the NRL has taken a firm stance on maintaining professionalism between club staff and the media.

The Warriors will now need to adjust their coaching setup during his absence as they aim to keep their focus on the field and avoid further disruptions as they face the Roosters this Friday paying $1.88 with top rugby league bookmakers.

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