Quarter of World Rugby's test group of ex-players 'at risk' of cognitive problems

04/30/2025 05:00 PM

• New service refers quarter of those seen for treatment
• Concern over high numbers of participants dropping out

A significant number of former elite players who have participated in World Rugby's new brain health service programme have been identified as being "at risk" of cognitive problems in later life.

So far 131 former rugby union players have registered to take part after last April's launch, although only 65 have completed the process. Of those, one quarter were referred for specialist treatment. The service is not designed to provide a diagnosis, only to provide a risk assessment for former players.