FIA Launches New Concussion Awareness Campaign
In a motor sport first, the FIA has launched a new educational programme designed to raise awareness of the dangers of concussion.
Launched by FIA president, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, at the FIA 2024 Conference in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, the programme has come to life through the collaboration of the FIA Medical and Safety teams.
The educational content, created to be used across social platforms and as printable assets, is available to all Member Clubs. The assets will be available in any club’s language of choice, reflecting the FIA’s commitment to improving accessibility and inclusivity.
Mohammed Ben Sulayem, FIA President and driving force behind this project, said: “I have experienced concussion firsthand, away from the race track. I have felt the symptoms and dealt with the aftermath. I understand the critical importance of this issue.Thanks to the FIA Medical and Safety team, we will provide an educational and accessible approach to identifying and combating concussion in our sport, ensuring the safety of all current and future competitors.”
Concussion is a mild brain injury that needs to be taken seriously, and by educating on how to spot it, the steps to take if concussed, and how to return to racing, this knowledge sharing will help keep motor sport as safe as possible.
The best concussion is the one you don’t have, and prevention is the first line of defence.
Signs of concussion to watch out for include:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Problems balancing
- Amnesia or forgetfulness
- Irritability or changed emotional state
Competitors with symptoms should present themselves to the medical team who will assess and advice. Remember, if in doubt, sit out.
On returning to racing after a concussion, international competitors should follow the regulations in Appendix L of the FIA Sporting Code. National competitors should follow the advice of their ASN medical department, with all competitors declaring concussion instances to the Chief Medical Officer at the start of their next race.
The campaign is supported by funding from the FIA Foundation.