IFAB: Football's law-making body to review concussion protocols

An expert group has been set up by the International Football Association Board (IFAB), football's law-making body, to decide on the matter of introducing concussion substitutes in football. Rule-makers have begun looking into whether changes in the existing laws are needed to provide for better treatment of players who suffer concussions during a game

Also Read | Champions League: Toni Kroos Scores A Century Of UCL Appearances

Football concussions: FIFA open to changes

FIFA are themselves now open to having a 10-minute assessment of players with a suspected concussion, as well as giving more powers to their own match doctor in FIFA-organised matches. They are also ready to back up new protocols with sanctions following past examples of their current guidelines being flouted and no subsequent disciplinary consequences.

Also Read | MLS Cup Playoffs: LAFC Vs LA Galaxy, Atlanta Vs Philadelphia Preview

The world players' union FIFPro as well as the European football body, UEFA have asked for new guidelines for dealing with players who suffer a blow to the head. FIFPro are also pushing for medics independent from FIFA or the competing teams to have the final say on whether a player continues, as well as a ‘return to play’ protocol following a concussion that is applied globally across competitions. A minimum of six days is currently recommended in most sports at the international level. 'Return to play protocols' and the issue of examination by independent doctors will not be a matter for IFAB, who have the power to change the rules of the game. This means that their focus will be on concussion substitutes and how long a player with a head injury can be reviewed. 

Also Read | El Clasico, Real Madrid Vs Barcelona: Who Will Benefit From Delay?

At present, referees must stop the match in cases of suspected concussion to allow the examination of the injured player who can only return to the game with permission from the team doctor. However, FIFPro wants players to be looked at by a neutral doctor and temporary substitutions to be allowed for up to 10 minutes while the examination takes place.

Also Read | Liverpool Reportedly Interested In Signing Jadon Sancho From Dortmund