World Rugby announces significant reduction in concussions

Before the second edition of the annual players' health and safety symposium, which will be held in Paris from March 3 to 5, the International Federation took stock of the first measures taken in 2019. And states, with supporting statistics, that the testing of six new injury prevention measures has already had significant positive effects.

If the number of injuries per game in professional rugby has remained relatively stable, "the concussion rate in 22 professional competitions has decreased on average by 17.5%," said World Rugby. Confirming, however, that the tackle still represents "up to 50% of all injuries occurring during a match".

Other good news, at the 2019 World Cup in Japan, the number of injuries decreased slightly, from 90 injuries per 1,000 hours of practice to 83 injuries. Sanctions against high tackles also had an effect, reducing the rate of concussions by 28% during the Japanese World Cup.

" I look forward to a frank and open discussion with the players at the heart of our thinking "

Another satisfaction, the launch in 105 federations of the “Activate” program of injury prevention exercises reduced the risk of soft tissue injuries by 26% and 40% respectively among young people and adults, and that of concussion of 29% and 60%.

"Our sport is united in its commitment to making rugby as safe, simple and fun for everyone to play," said Sir Bill Beaumont, President of World Rugby. As a sport, I believe we need to be leaders and significant progress has already been made in recent years to reduce injury rates, particularly with respect to concussions, through a evidence. (…) The 2020 Symposium will once again bring together all rugby stakeholders to review progress and evidence-based strategies to further reduce the risk of injury to all in sport. I look forward to a frank and open discussion with the players at the heart of our thinking. ”

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