FIA launches revolutionary concussion campaign

The FIA has successfully launched a campaign to raise awareness of the dangers of concussion, through a collaboration with its Medical and Safety team. 

It was launched by FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem in the recent FIA 2024 Conference in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. 

It is the first time a campaign like this has been created in motorsport, with an educational programme being put in place to make everyone aware of the initial signs that someone is concussed. 

The FIA outline that concussion symptoms are: headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, problems balancing, amnesia or forgetfulness and Irritability or changed emotional state.

Should a driver experience any of these, then they have been urged by the governing body to seek medical attention from the on-site medical team. 

If a driver has any doubt surrounding their condition, the FIA suggests that they miss the session.

International competitors returning to racing following a period of being concussed should follow Appendix L of the FIA Sporting Code, and should inform the chief medical officer of their condition at the following event. 

'Critical importance' of understanding concussion

Educational content will be produced on both social media and print, and be made available to all Members Clubs. 

The content will be available in any language of choice, with Ben Sulayem wanting to raise as much awareness for how dangerous concussion can be as possible.

“I have experienced concussion firsthand, away from the race track," said FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem. 

"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 teams, 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.”