Rugby’s long-running concussion lawsuit has hit another major obstacle, with the claimants facing fresh legal pressure and a change in representation.
The legal action, launched in 2020 against World Rugby, the Rugby Football Union and the Welsh Rugby Union, involves hundreds of former players alleging neurological damage caused by repeated head impacts during their careers.
The latest setback comes after the governing bodies urged the High Court to dismiss hundreds of claims, arguing the claimants repeatedly failed to disclose documents relating to neurological testing despite court orders.
Lawyers for the former players countered that the breaches were neither serious nor significant, warning it would be an “extreme response” to strike out claims in litigation of major public interest.
ICYMI: Concussion lawsuit could collapse
The uncertainty deepened after solicitor Richard Boardman confirmed he intends to step away from the case after leading it since its launch.
Boardman said he would oversee “an orderly handover” while Leigh Day considers taking over, subject to due diligence and the claimants’ approval.
The list of former players involved includes World Cup winners Steve Thompson, Phil Vickery and Mark Regan.
Popham welcomed the proposed change in legal representation.
“We believe this represents a positive step in progressing the litigation,” he said. “We hope it will help provide the momentum required to move the proceedings forward as efficiently as possible.”
Photo: Action Images/Jason O’Brien
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Rugby’s long-running concussion lawsuit has hit another major obstacle, with the claimants facing fresh legal pressure and a change in representation.
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