'Challenges': Dolphins end controversial sponsorship with cannabis company

The Dolphins have ended their controversial sponsorship deal with medicinal cannabis clinic Alternaleaf, with the NRL club looking for a new partnership for next season.

The Dolphins are seeking a new sponsor after severing ties with their existing partner, Alternaleaf, described as "Australia's largest medical cannabis clinic" by its founding company Montu.

The deal was potentially in breach of the Therapeutic Goods Act because the TGA bans advertising of prescription medicine such as medicinal cannabis, or consultations for medical cannabis as part of a health service, despite being legal for medicinal purposes.

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The Dolphins were forced to cover up the Alternaleaf branding on their jerseys after the TGA launched court proceedings against Montu in April.

But the day after the ruling, the Dolphins were forced to apply tape over the company's branding on the jersey against the Eels, which came off in the hot and humid conditions in Darwin.

"There was some noise around our partnership earlier this year, and we worked closely with Alternaleaf and the TGA to find a workable resolution," Dolphins chief executive Terry Reader said.

"Given the challenges with the regulations, our partnership concluded. We still have a great relationship with Alternaleaf, and were circumstances to change, we would certainly be open to working with them again in the future."

The Dolphins and Alternaleaf had planned to continue the partnership, but the roadblocks could not help the partnership flourish.

"While our Alternaleaf partnership with the Dolphins is no longer active, we maintain a positive and ongoing relationship with them, and there remains motivation to pursue a partnership together in the future," said Montu spokesperson and director of public affairs Kelly King.

"We have the utmost respect for the Dolphins, have been proud to have been associated with the team and applaud their strong performance during the 2024 season."

Cannabis products are banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency, although the Dolphins' sponsorship is not related to medical treatment for its players.