AFL concussion case grows with more former players joining the landmark class action
Eight more former AFL players have joined a class action lawsuit against the league and ten clubs over alleged concussion-related injuries.Summary
A landmark class action lawsuit against the Australian Football League (AFL) and ten of its clubs has expanded with the addition of eight former players, bringing the total number of plaintiffs to over 100. The lawsuit, initially led by former Geelong player Max Rooke since 2023, alleges negligence in the protection of players from concussion-related injuries. Notable new plaintiffs include former North Melbourne premiership player Ian Fairley, ex-Carlton vice captain Nick Stevens, and Michael Richardson, a veteran of Collingwood and Essendon.
The court documents claim the former players suffered permanent and life-altering injuries due to concussions sustained during their AFL careers, and that the clubs and the AFL failed to adequately protect them from these risks. The plaintiffs are seeking damages to cover losses resulting from the alleged negligence. Michel Margalit of Margalit Injury Lawyers emphasized the bravery of the players coming forward and highlighted the serious, lifelong harm caused by these concussions, stating that many are now injured and unable to afford care.
The AFL and Geelong are currently contesting the allegations in the Rooke-led portion of the case, with a potential trial date set for late May 2027. Further investigations are underway regarding other AFL clubs that have not yet been named in the lawsuit, and case management hearings are scheduled to confirm trial dates in April.
(Source：7NEWS Australia)