Mon, March 09, 2026
The Risk of Suicide in Professional Sport: Risk, Responsibility & Hope
The Risk of Suicide in Professional Sport: Risk, Responsibility & Hope
Suicide remains one of the last great taboos in society, a word many still feel unable to say out loud. Yet around one in two people will know someone who has died by suicide during their lifetime, and many more will know someone who has attempted it.
In the world of rugby, these realities are often hidden behind toughness, resilience, and the pressure to “carry on.” Players face unique risk factors, from injury and concussion to identity loss, pain, performance pressure, and mental health stigma, all of which can increase vulnerability.
This session explores the reality of suicide in contact sports and specifically, rugby, and why prevention must become everyone’s responsibility. We will share how Tackle Suicide CIC is using lived-experience research to understand players’ journeys, amplify unheard voices, and develop meaningful, evidence-informed interventions.
Together, we will look at how clubs, communities, and individuals can recognise risk, reduce stigma, and create safer environments where players feel able to ask for help.
Click here to view speakers’ biographies.
The Must-Attend Event for Sports & Law Professionals
Our 11th Annual Conference in association with Winston & Strawn LLP, scheduled for Thursday, 7th May 2026, will take place at the five-star Leonardo Royal London St Paul's Hotel. The milestone event will celebrate a decade of bringing together top legal and sports professionals to discuss the most pressing issues in the industry.
As always, the conference will feature an exceptional line-up of speakers and panellists, including leading experts in anti-doping, athlete welfare, good governance, and integrity. We are also excited to announce that sports journalist and broadcaster Manish Bhasin will be moderating the conference, bringing his expertise and dynamic presence to the event. Attendees will have the chance to engage in dynamic discussions, learn from thought leaders, and gain valuable insights into the latest trends shaping the future of sports law.
In addition to the informative sessions, the conference will provide ample networking opportunities, with over 250 professionals from the legal and sports sectors expected to attend. From a dedicated breakfast to networking coffee breaks and a post-conference drinks reception, there will be plenty of chances to connect and share ideas with like-minded peers.
A provisional agenda is available on our event page.
TICKETS
