
Rugby Union Weekly Bonus: Youngs & Moody - How Safe Is Rugby?
Mar 7, 2026
Ben Youngs, ex-pro turned documentary presenter investigating concussion and long-term brain health. Lewis Moody, former England captain now living with MND, shares personal reflections on risk and care. Sam Peters, investigative journalist and author of Concussed, presses for accountability. They discuss concussion, training contact, grassroots protections and how the sport might need to change to better protect players.
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Rugby's Pioneering Shift On Concussion
- Ben Youngs found the sport is making pioneering progress on concussion with new protocols, technology and studies aimed at prevention.
- He cites HIA protocols, smart mouthguards and research to prevent another Steve Thompson situation long-term.
Players Now Self-Police Concussion More Often
- The cultural shift means players who once 'cheated' protocols now openly remove themselves when unwell.
- Ben contrasts Anthony Watson's 2017 return with modern players like Gary Ringrose refusing to play when symptomatic.
Lewis Moody's Diagnosis And No Regrets
- Lewis Moody describes his MND diagnosis as a rollercoaster of emotions but says he has no regrets about playing rugby.
- He recalls multiple concussions in his career, accepted the risks, and values rugby for the life it gave him.

