World Rugby has finally released a statement on the pending court case over neurological injuries
World Rugby release statement on concussion case
NEWS: In regards to the ongoing legal dispute concerning neurological injuries, World Rugby has finally issued a comment.
The senior master in the case, Master Jeremy Cook, brought up the following important points:
“We’re going to have a lot of problems if the medical records are not prepared correctly.”
“In a situation like this, medical records are the absolute minimum that one needs.”
“It’s fundamental; a medical report that presents a condition and prognosis in this way just cannot exist.”
On behalf of the athletes, Susan Rodway KC also acknowledged that “there are no medical records” in certain situations.
“While today’s case management hearing was necessary about the legal process, we must not forget about the people and players at the heart of this case,” says World Rugby’s entire statement.
We are unable to assist the players—many of whom are being named publicly for the first time today—due to legal action.
However, we want them to feel that they are a part of the family, that we are attentive to their problems, and that we genuinely care about them.
“It is a positive step that the court has ruled twice that the claimants’ solicitors are required to provide the information that was previously requested.” The court observed that there was a “gaping hole” in the proof offered by the claimant’s legal team, notwithstanding its June 2023 order.
It is unfortunate that the matter is still being delayed, and it is difficult for everyone involved—including the players themselves—that their attorneys appear to be more concerned with getting media attention than fulfilling their legal responsibilities.
Rugby’s primary goal has always been and will always be player welfare. As science and research continue to advance, rugby is dedicated to spearheading the welfare agenda in sports to safeguard and assist players at all levels.
This includes groundbreaking programs like requiring all elite athletes to wear smart mouthguards in order to detect and treat concussive and subconcussive hits during play. In the community game, a lower tackle height is also being tested to make sure that everyone can benefit from our wonderful sport.