A study shows that children should not be allowed to play rugby or take part in boxing because contact sports are a form of child abuse.
Researchers say they can lead to brain damage and neurodegenerative diseases, and schools that allow them do so without informed consent.
Eric Anderson, professor of sport at the University of Winchester, said: “The cultural perception is that hitting a child outside of sport is abuse, but [in sport it is] somehow socially acceptable.
“The brains are damaged in both.”
Last night, comparing the global epidemic of childhood obesity, rugby body the RFU said it believes the sport has a “role in keeping people active and healthy”.
The investigation comes as more than 200 retired rugby stars are suing three of the sport's governing bodies, claiming the organizations failed to take reasonable steps to protect them from brain injury.
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Among the former players involved with the High Court An example of this is England's 2003 World Cup winner Steve Thompson.
He revealed in 2020 that he had been diagnosed with early-onset dementia.
England World Cup hero Steve has previously revealed he cannot remember the historic 2003 victory due to early onset dementia.
He told The guard: “I can't really remember.
“Like the World Cup period, I don't even remember taking part in it Australia.
“And I'm watching the game and I just think: it's like I'm watching the England team right now.
“I'm on the field, but I don't remember being there at all.”