In a landmark move to prioritize player safety, FIFA, in partnership with the World Health Organization (WHO), has launched the "Suspect and Protect: No Match is Worth the Risk" campaign. This initiative, which aligns with FIFA's Strategic Objectives for the Global Game: 2023–2027, aims to raise awareness about the dangers of concussions in football. First announced during the IFAB Annual General Meeting (AGM) in March 2024, the campaign seeks to educate players, coaches, and medical staff about the risks and proper management of concussions.

The campaign emphasizes that a concussion is not just a minor injury but a serious brain trauma that can affect any player on the field. Developed with input from FIFA Medical and WHO brain health experts, the "Suspect and Protect" campaign focuses on improving the recognition of concussion symptoms, particularly since they may take up to 72 hours to appear. The initiative provides guidance on how to safely return to play after a suspected or confirmed concussion. It is designed to benefit national teams, professional clubs, leagues, and grassroots communities by offering tailored resources to help manage head injuries effectively.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino stressed the importance of taking concussions seriously, stating, “Concussion is a brain injury and should always be taken seriously. Playing football should be something enjoyed safely, by everyone, everywhere. By knowing the signs of concussion, being aware of the risks, and treating it correctly, we can prioritize player safety.” Infantino thanked FIFA's member associations for their collaboration in launching the campaign and for adhering to the advice provided by WHO.

WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that concussions are a public health concern in all sports, not just football. He expressed pride in WHO’s partnership with FIFA on the "Suspect and Protect" initiative, highlighting the importance of protecting players of all ages from the risks associated with head injuries.

The campaign is designed to engage audiences at every level of the sport, from professional leagues to amateur and grassroots communities. It encourages all involved in football, whether they are players, coaches, doctors, or caregivers, to recognize that concussions are serious injuries that require immediate attention. Anyone who sustains a direct or indirect blow to the head, face, neck, or body should be assessed for concussion symptoms, which can include headaches, dizziness, nausea, blurred vision, memory problems, confusion, or sleep issues. If symptoms are present, the affected player should leave the field and seek medical advice within 24 hours.

As part of the campaign, FIFA will deliver "Suspect and Protect" globally through its various channels, with resources distributed to all 211 FIFA Member Associations. This ensures the campaign reaches national, regional, and local levels, creating a cohesive and informed network of football stakeholders who are equipped to manage concussion risks effectively.

The initiative represents a significant step forward in improving the way concussions are understood and treated in football. By fostering international collaboration and increasing awareness, FIFA and WHO aim to reduce the risks associated with head injuries and ensure that no match is ever worth risking a player’s long-term health.