18 September 2024. In alignment with the Strategic Objectives for the Global Game: 2023-2027, FIFA has partnered with the World Health Organization (WHO) to launch a global concussion awareness initiative, Suspect and Protect: No Match is Worth the Risk. The campaign, announced at The IFAB AGM in March 2024, aims to highlight the dangers of concussion as a serious brain injury, which poses a risk to all players on the field.
The campaign has garnered support from international players, coaches, and medical professionals, focusing on increasing the recognition of concussion signs and symptoms among the football community and the general public. Developed in consultation with FIFA Medical and WHO brain health experts, Suspect and Protect provides critical guidance on how to manage concussions, emphasizing that symptoms may take up to 72 hours to appear. It also outlines the necessary steps for a safe return to play after a suspected or confirmed concussion.
FIFA is working closely with its 211 member associations to distribute toolkits that will be tailored for national, regional, and local levels, ensuring the message reaches all levels of football, from professional clubs to grassroots communities.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino stressed the importance of player safety, stating, “Concussion is a brain injury and should always be taken seriously. By knowing the signs of concussion and treating it correctly, you can help prioritize player safety.”
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, echoed this sentiment: “Concussion is a public health concern that affects all levels of football. WHO is proud to collaborate with FIFA on this campaign to protect players from the risks of concussion.”
The Suspect and Protect campaign centers on three key actions:
- Be aware: Concussions should be taken seriously as traumatic brain injuries. It is crucial for players, coaches, and caregivers to recognize the common signs and seek medical help when necessary.
- Suspect: Anyone who suffers a direct or indirect impact to the head, face, or neck should be evaluated for concussion symptoms, which can take up to 72 hours to develop. These include headaches, nausea, dizziness, vision problems, memory issues, and confusion.
- Protect: Any player displaying concussion symptoms should leave the field immediately and consult a doctor within 24 hours. Players must follow medical advice on their return to play, as no match is worth the risk of further injury.
The campaign is being delivered globally through FIFA’s channels, aiming to create safer environments for footballers of all ages and skill levels.
