FIFA and WHO launch awareness campaign on concussion risks in football

Program aims to increase symptom recognition among players, coaches and doctors

FIFA and the World Health Organization (WHO) on Wednesday launched a global concussion awareness initiative developed with brain health experts.

The “Suspect and Protect – No Game is Worth the Risk” program aims to increase recognition of signs and symptoms of concussion among players, coaches and physicians, as well as the general public.

FIFA’s campaign has Flamengo defender David Luiz as its spokesperson. In a video distributed by the organization, the player warns:

– As players, we have to continually educate ourselves and be more aware so that we can continue to help the game grow while educating those who may suffer a hard knock or blow to the head, which doesn’t just happen in football but in everyday life.

The campaign will be published on FIFA channels and promotional kits are being distributed to FIFA’s 211 member associations for dissemination at national, regional and local levels.

“Concussion is a brain injury and must always be taken seriously. Playing football should be enjoyed safely, by everyone, everywhere,” said FIFA President Gianni Infantino.

– Concussion is a public health concern at all levels of football and many other sports,and requires greater levels of awareness and action,” said World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom.

Since the beginning of this Brazilian Championship, the CBF has adopted the new FIFA protocol, which allows one more substitution (without losing one of the five that teams are entitled to) in cases or suspicions of concussion.