The High Court in London has ruled that more than 500 former professional and amateur rugby union and rugby league players can proceed with legal action against the sport’s governing bodies over alleged career-ending brain injuries.

The claimants allege they suffered neurological conditions caused by head injuries sustained during their careers. The ruling allows the lawsuits to proceed to trial, despite the claims previously facing the risk of collapse following the departure of the solicitor leading the case.

Judge David Cook stated on Friday that while he would have thrown out the claims, he decided "with some hesitation" that they should proceed to trial, subject to conditions to be decided at a further hearing.

The legal action involves several governing bodies, including:

• World Rugby
• The Rugby Football Union (RFU)
• The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU)
• The Rugby Football League
• The British Amateur Rugby League Association