What you should know
Injuries in football need an industry-tailored approach
The risk of injury for footballers is far higher than in many other occupations and can have a lasting impact on a player’s career. FIFPRO is continuously researching the causes, long-term effects and overall impact of injuries in the game, ensuring that both preventative and reactive measures are in place to support players.
Adequate education on symptoms of sudden cardiac arrest
The presence of a defibrillator at every match and training session is of paramount importance. Of equal importance is the need to ensure an adequate education about symptoms of sudden cardiac arrest, and resuscitation (CPR), not only among players but also among other people working in football.
Health issues can be mental, not just physical
While footballers may be more likely to suffer from physical injuries due to their type of profession, the mental wellbeing of players also needs to be considered. Footballers ply their trade infront of thousands of fans in stadium, and in front of millions on television, online and social media. This can bring about pressures that very few have experience of.
Latest case study and player stories
Professional football is disregarding legal requirements for Health & Safety Standards, University report says
Belgian university KU Leuven says professional football has a duty to apply tailored international health and safety standards, respecting European legal frameworks. The university report says football governing bodies and social partners have a specific responsibility to take a proactive and holistic approach to player welfare.
Latest news
“We strive to promote and protect the health and related quality of life of professional footballers during their careers but also beyond”
— by FIFPRO Chief Medical Officer Dr. Vincent Gouttebarge
