The rugby community is overwhelmed with sadness following the tragic death of former Māori All Blacks star Shane Christie. Found just a day shy of his 40th birthday, Christie’s sudden passing is currently seen as a suspected suicide. This heartbreaking event shines a glaring light on the issues surrounding brain health in rugby.
Shane had bravely spoken about his struggles with chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) post-retirement, displaying symptoms like headaches, memory issues, and mood swings. Sadly, CTE can only be confirmed post-mortem. Shane was notably a passionate advocate for researching the connection between concussions and long-term brain injuries in rugby. His desire to donate his brain for research underscores his commitment to player safety.
Former Wales international Alix Popham has expressed his anger toward World Rugby and New Zealand Rugby, urging them to “stop the denial” concerning players’ brain health. Popham, who himself deals with early onset dementia possibly due to CTE, made a heartfelt plea on social media, questioning when decisive action will truly begin.
Popham isn’t alone. Over 1,100 former players are pursuing legal action, seeking compensation for brain injuries experienced during their careers. These claims point a finger at the Rugby Football Union, the Welsh Rugby Union, and World Rugby. All accused bodies deny these claims, with the possibility of a trial looming next year.
World Rugby insists player safety is a priority, mentioning recent innovations like smart mouthguards and lowered tackle heights in community games. They acknowledge the sorrow felt for struggling former players, but legal constraints limit their engagement.
The rugby world must decide if it will confront the hard truths behind these tragedies and enact meaningful change, honouring the voices of regrettably lost players like Christie. As the community mourns another loss, the call for open dialogue and responsibility grows louder. How many more must be lost before real change is made? The rugby family deserves care and protection.