Rugby

Rugby’s evolving commercial, regulatory and financial landscape presents a number of complex competitive challenges for professional players, clubs and the sport’s governing bodies.

We have the experience and expertise to support both codes with a variety of legal issues faced by those involved in the game, providing bespoke, strategic and commercially focussed sector specific advice and representation.

In recent times, professional rugby in England and Wales has been under extreme scrutiny and pressure, with established clubs facing serious financial difficulties and falling into administration. This can lead to both players and staff receiving little notice of the termination of their employment.

With widespread calls for radical reform and realignment of the sport’s commercial, governance, employment and strategic relationships, it is likely only a matter of time before those involved with both codes will need to navigate a raft of procedural changes to support long-term sustainable growth.

Player welfare is a central concern for both rugby league and rugby union with each discussing the protocols and procedures in place to deal with health risks posed to their players, particularly in relation to concussion and tackle height.

Although the evidence of the impact of rugby on players’ psychological and psychiatric wellbeing has influenced stakeholders to tighten concussion rules, many are calling for further changes. The changes in these regulations not only impact the health and fitness of players, they also have ramifications for the liability of the clubs and leagues.