World Rugby, alongside the Rugby Football Union (RFU) and the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU), is attempting to dismiss nearly 380 lawsuits filed by former rugby union players over neurological injuries. The governing bodies argue that the claimants’ lawyers have failed to disclose crucial medical evidence in their cases.

The lawsuits involve around 800 ex-amateur and professional players who allege that repeated concussive and sub-concussive impacts have resulted in serious neurological conditions. The claimants assert that the governing bodies breached their duty of care by not adequately protecting them from these risks. In response, World Rugby contends that it had no such duty, stating that injuries are an "inherent risk" associated with the sport.

The legal proceedings began in 2022 but have faced numerous delays due to issues surrounding disclosure. A parallel case involving former rugby league players is experiencing similar setbacks.

Currently, World Rugby, the RFU, and the WRU have requested the High Court in London to dismiss the claims, citing that the claimants’ lawyers have violated court orders by not providing necessary records, including recordings of "neurology interviews" conducted before the lawsuits were initiated.

Neil Block, a lawyer for the RFU, emphasized to the court that "enough is enough," highlighting the importance of obtaining these documents. Conversely, the claimants' lawyers argue that they have submitted the majority of required documents and warn that dismissing their claims would be an "extreme response."

Susan Rodway, representing the claimants, stated that this litigation holds significant public interest and societal relevance for the future of contact sports in the UK, urging the court to avoid procedural dismissals that could jeopardize the claims of many former players.