FIFA and WHO collaborate on an international concussion campaign

The World Health Organization (WHO) and FIFA, the body that oversees soccer, announced a global concussion awareness campaign on Wednesday. The campaign was created in collaboration with specialists in the field of brain health.

According to a joint statement, the objective of the “Suspect and Protect: No Match is Worth the Risk” program is to provide resources on the topic and draw attention to the dangers of traumatic brain damage.

“Player safety is the top priority and can be achieved by understanding the symptoms of a concussion, being aware of the risks, and receiving the proper treatment,” stated FIFA President Gianni Infantino.

Following a trial, the International Football Association Board (IFAB) legalized permanent concussion substitutes in March. This year’s Copa America will mark the implementation of the law.

More awareness of concussions is required at all levels of play, according to WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

“WHO is proud to team up with FIFA… to promote ways to protect the brains of footballers,” the official stated.