Dismissed solicitor continues to act in football brain injury case

By the Editorial Team · Saturday, July 25, 2026

Richard Boardman, who faced criticism and possible case dismissal in a rugby brain injury lawsuit, continues to represent a smaller group of former footballers pursuing similar claims but is set to withdraw after the claimants severed ties with his firm. The football case, involving notable ex-players and newly engaged defense lawyers from the FA, is advancing through document exchange while the rugby claimants seek new legal representation amid ongoing judicial scrutiny.

Richard Boardman, a solicitor previously dismissed by more than 1,000 former rugby players involved in a brain injury lawsuit, continues to represent a separate group of former footballers pursuing a similar case. The football claimants allege that repeated head injuries sustained during their careers have resulted in permanent brain damage.

At a hearing this week at the Royal Courts of Justice, Boardman indicated his intention to withdraw from the football case. However, the claimants involved said they had unanimously decided to end their relationship with his firm, Rylands Garth. Despite this, Boardman remains formally listed as their solicitor pending the appointment of new legal representation.

Boardman’s conduct has come under scrutiny in the related rugby case. Master Jeremy Cook, the presiding judge, sharply criticised Boardman for what he described as “widespread non-compliance” with court orders and “misleading evidence,” particularly concerning the failure to provide complete medical records of the claimants. The judge is currently considering whether to strike out the rugby case altogether, which would affect former players including England World Cup winners Steve Thompson and Phil Vickery. The rugby lawsuit has been ongoing for six years.

In contrast to the large rugby group, Boardman continues to represent 23 former footballers in their claims against the Football Association (FA), the English Football League, and the Football Association of Wales. This smaller group includes families of notable figures such as World Cup winner Nobby Stiles, former Newcastle United manager Joe Kinnear, and four former Premier League players. The reduced number of claimants and associated medical records has been characterized as making the football case more manageable for Rylands Garth.

Earlier this year, the FA altered its legal defence team in the football matter. Both sides are currently engaged in the exchange of documents as the case progresses.

The rugby claimants are actively seeking new legal counsel. The law firm Leigh Day has been consulting with them since February and is considering taking on the case. Meanwhile, Boardman has been absent from recent court hearings related to rugby, yet remains formally in charge of the proceedings until replacement solicitors are appointed.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.