Welsh Rugby Union Launches Brain Health Service

The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU), along with the Welsh Rugby Players' Association (WRPA) and World Rugby, has launched a free Brain Health Service aimed at former elite players to assess and manage potential brain injuries. This initiative comes in response to ongoing lawsuits from 390 rugby players alleging negligence regarding head injuries sustained during their careers. The service includes an online assessment, cognitive evaluation, and educational components, and is designed to identify any brain health warning signs while providing guidance on managing risks. Former Wales captain Ken Owens was the first to undergo the assessment, and the program will eventually extend to current players by the 2025/26 season. With Wales being the third country to implement such a service after Ireland and Australia, this initiative highlights a growing commitment to player welfare amid increasing concerns over brain injuries in rugby. The program is funded by World Rugby and aims to provide accessible resources for the health and well-being of former players.