More than 60 former Australian Football League (AFL) players are suing the league for up to £800 million (AU$1 billion) in compensation, alleging negligence over concussion-related brain damage. The landmark class action, filed in the Victorian Supreme Court, claims the players suffered permanent injuries due to head strikes during matches and training.
Lead plaintiff Max Rooke, a dual premiership player with Geelong from 2001 to 2010, is seeking damages for pain, suffering, economic loss, and medical expenses. Lawyers representing the group say some former players have been unable to work since leaving the AFL and live with constant physical and mental pain.
The writ alleges the AFL failed to implement adequate rules, protocols, and education about concussion risks, despite medical knowledge dating back to 1992. It claims the league's negligence contributed to players suffering long-term effects such as memory loss, depression, and irritability.
Michel Margalit of Margalit Injury Lawyers said the action is not about bringing down the AFL but compensating injured players through insurance. The firm is seeking approximately AU$2 million per player and is open to negotiating with the league.
The AFL stated it takes concussion seriously and recently updated its return-to-play protocols to require a minimum 12-day recovery period. The league has yet to receive formal correspondence about the lawsuit.
