World Rugby, UK bodies lose bid to throw out concussion lawsuits
London’s High Court has ruled that concussion-related lawsuits against World Rugby and other governing bodies can proceed, rejecting a bid to dismiss the cases. Over 500 former players are seeking damages for neurological injuries sustained during their careers.
Why it matters
This ruling sets a significant legal precedent for player safety and liability in contact sports globally.
More than 500 ex-rugby union and league players have sued the codes’ governing bodies over neurological injuries.
Listen LONDON – World Rugby and four British governing bodies lost an attempt on Aug 21 to end concussion lawsuits involving more than 500 former rugby union and league players, after London’s High Court ruled the cases could continue.
The wider litigation includes England’s 2003 World Cup winners, hooker Steve Thompson and tighthead prop Phil Vickery, among almost 800 former rugby union players suing over neurological injuries they say were caused by repeated blows to the head. More than 300 former rugby league players are also taking legal action.
The governing bodies asked for a ruling which would end the cases of more than 500 former professional and amateur players over both codes.
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