AFL concussion class action expands to more than 100 former players and 11 clubs

A multimillion-dollar concussion class action against the Australian Football League (AFL) has grown to include more than 100 former players and 11 clubs. The lawsuit, filed by Margalit Injury Lawyers, alleges that players suffered life-altering brain damage due to concussions and head trauma sustained while playing Aussie Rules football. Plaintiffs include former stars like Max Rooke, Ian Fairley, and Nick Stevens, who claim to have experienced neurological impairments such as suspected chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), traumatic brain injury (TBI), and dementia, as well as psychological issues like depression and suicidal ideation.

The AFL previously attempted to have the case dismissed, but that bid was rejected, and a trial date is expected to be confirmed next month, with Justice Keogh suggesting May 31, 2027. The former players are seeking damages for pain and suffering, economic loss, and medical expenses. Lawyer Michel Margalit is urging AFL CEO Andrew Dillon to negotiate a settlement, stating that “financial compensation can never fix the damage that concussion has caused, but it will be an important step forward.”

The case covers the period from January 1985 to March 14, 2023, and draws parallels to a similar class action in the US involving former NFL players, which resulted in a payout exceeding $1.44 billion. The lawsuit highlights the growing concern surrounding the long-term health consequences of concussions in contact sports, particularly following the post-mortem diagnoses of CTE in former AFL players like Danny Frawley and Shane Tuck, both of whom died by suicide.

(Source：ABC (Australian Broadcasting Corporation))