Rugby concussion advocate Shane Christie, who pledged brain donation, dies at 39

Shane Christie, a former Māori All Blacks player who had expressed his wish for his brain to be examined following the effects of repeated concussions, has passed away at the age of 39.

The New Zealand rugby player had advocated for increased awareness of the consequences of repeated head injuries in the sport. After retiring in 2017, Christie reportedly experienced headaches, memory issues, speech difficulties, depression, and mood fluctuations, symptoms often linked to chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE).

Christie, who also played for Otago Highlanders, Canterbury Crusaders, and the All Blacks sevens team, was discovered at his residence in Nelson on Wednesday morning after authorities were notified. “The matter will be handled by the coroner, and we cannot provide further details at this time,” police stated.

New Zealand Rugby acknowledged Christie’s deep connection to the sport, saying he would “always be remembered.” “Losing a member of the rugby community is deeply felt,” the organization said. “Shane’s dedication to the game will endure in our memories. Our condolences go out to Shane’s family, friends, former teammates, and community during this challenging time.”

Christie had reportedly intended to contribute his brain to the New Zealand sports human brain bank for research on CTE, a degenerative condition resulting from repetitive head trauma that can only be diagnosed posthumously. “Brain donations are vital for understanding the progression of this disease and supporting ongoing research,” Christie had previously stated.

In 2023, Christie played a role in establishing the Billy Guyton Foundation to further examine the impact of concussions on players following the death of his teammate. Guyton was the first New Zealand rugby player confirmed to have had CTE.