Brain injury claims brought by the family of England World Cup winner Nobby Stiles and other former footballers have had their first day in court.
On 16 January 2024, the High Court heard that the case, over alleged harm caused by heading the ball, involves ‘almost 19 [claimants], formally 17’. It is expected that the number ‘will grow probably quite considerably and be in the region of 50 to 75’.
The case has been brought against the International Football Association Board, the Football Association, the Football League Limited, and the Football Association of Wales. It follows litigation against World Rugby Limited, Welsh Rugby Union Limited and England’s Rugby Football Union over brain injuries.
The hearing in the Royal Courts of Justice was held to hear an application for extension of time to serve the particulars of claim. A further case management hearing will be heard in the spring.