FIFA and WHO Launch Global Concussion Awareness Campaign

FIFA and the World Health Organization (WHO) have joined forces to address the risks of concussions in football through a new campaign, Suspect and Protect: No Match is Worth the Risk.

What does the campaign aim to do?

The initiative, which was announced after the IFAB’s AGM in March 2024 and the IFAB’s decision earlier this year to implement permanent concussion substitutions in tournaments like the Copa America, aims to raise awareness about the dangers of traumatic brain injuries and provide practical advice on how to handle concussions. 

The campaign, developed with input from medical experts, emphasises that concussions are serious brain injuries and can pose a threat to any player on the field. Symptoms of concussion may take up to 72 hours to appear and require immediate attention, as untreated concussions can lead to serious long-term health issues. 

"Concussion is a brain injury and should always be taken seriously," FIFA President Gianni Infantino said. "By knowing the signs of concussion, by being aware of the risks, and by treating a concussion correctly, you can help to put player safety first."

Suspect and Protect

The Suspect and Protect campaign is built around three core messages: Be Aware, Suspect, and Protect. 

Be Aware

The first step encourages everyone involved in the game—players, coaches, medical staff, and even parents—to recognize the signs of concussion. Some of these signs include dizziness, nausea, blurred vision, and memory problems. According to the campaign, if a player experiences any of these symptoms after an impact, they should be immediately removed from play and assessed by a medical professional.

Suspect

The second message, Suspect, urges anyone who receives a blow to the head, face, neck, or body to be monitored for concussion symptoms, even if they do not appear right away. Concussion symptoms can evolve over time, so it’s crucial to be vigilant.

Protect

Finally, Protect calls for those showing signs of a concussion to leave the field without delay. Seeking urgent medical attention within 24 hours is vital, as some symptoms can worsen over time. Returning to play too soon after a concussion can exacerbate the injury and delay recovery. "No match is worth the risk," is a key phrase used throughout the campaign to drive home the importance of safety over performance.

Campaign receives widespread support

Endorsed by players, coaches, and medical professionals globally, the campaign has garnered significant support. 

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus highlighted the importance of this initiative, saying, "Concussion is a public health issue of concern at all levels of football, and many other sports, requiring greater levels of awareness and action."

FIFA’s global channels will promote the Suspect and Protect campaign, with toolkits being distributed to all 211 FIFA member associations to ensure local implementation. The campaign will reach not only professional leagues and national teams but also grassroots and amateur football communities, making sure that everyone involved in the game understands the risks of concussions.

With both FIFA and WHO emphasising the importance of concussion awareness, this campaign is poised to make a significant impact on how the football community approaches player safety. 

As Infantino stated, “Playing football should be something enjoyed safely, by everyone, everywhere.”