Concussion Management
Serious Risk to Players' Health
FIFPRO and player unions are at the forefront of addressing the issue of concussion. This is a serious health concern for players and one that still lacks proper awareness in football. Adequate health and safety protocols, as well as industry-tailored approach to research, are still missing.
Concussion Management: What to Know
While not as frequent or obvious as muscle or bone injuries, concussions can have significant repercussions on both a player’s short and long-term health.
This includes a mandatory pre-season education programme for all players, as well as strongly advocating for a 10-minute concussion review (in place of the current three) with the use of a temporary substitute during this period.
Despite attempts from FIFPRO, player unions and various competitions, the process of improving concussion management standards through IFAB is proving to be a slow and difficult process. Competition organisers and regulators should provide appropriate protection frameworks for players.
FIFPRO is leading research to provide better care for those who do endure a concussion. However, better prevention measures should be in place to protect players.
