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Tragic Legacy: Gordon McQueen's Death Highlights CTE Risks

1/26/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Gordon McQueen, former Scotland defender, died in 2023 at age 70 after a brain injury linked to heading a soccer ball.
Coroner Jon Heath emphasized the impact of repetitive head injuries during McQueen's 16-year career.
Hayley McQueen said her father knew the risks.
After his death, the family donated his brain for research, confirming chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) linked to his playing history.

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Story summary

Gordon McQueen, former Scotland defender, died in 2023 at age 70 after a brain injury linked to heading a soccer ball.
Coroner Jon Heath emphasized the impact of repetitive head injuries during McQueen's 16-year career.
Hayley McQueen said her father knew the risks.
After his death, the family donated his brain for research, confirming chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) linked to his playing history.