Concussion Protocol in Football: Head Injuries and Safety

Concussion is one of the most serious safety issues in football. A brain injury can occur as a result of a head strike, collision with another player, or a fall. Recent studies have shown that 22 percent of professional footballers have suffered at least one concussion during their career. The risk of CTE (chronic traumatic encephalopathy) is also rising.

FIFA introduced a new concussion protocol starting in 2024. When a head injury occurs during a game, medical staff conduct an assessment within 3 minutes. If a concussion is suspected, the player is immediately removed from the game and requires a recovery period of at least 10 days before returning. Some leagues grant the right to an additional substitution (concussion substitute).

It is necessary to increase knowledge about concussions in Uzbekistan football. Sometimes players continue to play with a head injury — this is very dangerous. Coaches, players, and medical staff must recognize the signs of concussion (dizziness, nausea, memory loss) and act correctly. Safety is more important than any result.