Former MLS forward Twellman calls for concussion protocols ahead of World Cup

Feb 26 : Former MLS MVP Taylor Twellman wants FIFA to implement mandatory concussion substitution rules worldwide, warning that inconsistent protocols among the 48 nations competing in this year's World Cup could put players at risk.

"Quite honestly, FIFA should have a concussion sub universal in all the leagues around the world," he told Reuters on Monday.

The 45-year-old broadcaster, whose playing career ended due to post-concussion syndrome, has become one of soccer's leading voices on brain injury awareness through his ThinkTaylor foundation, established in 2011.

He argues that while FIFA may have protocols on paper, soccer's world governing body has failed to ensure consistent application across international competitions.

"I don't think FIFA's done a good enough job of educating the world and being at the forefront of changing the sport for a better way for the athletes."

FIFA's concussion protocol advises a "suspect and protect" approach, calling for players with suspected concussion to be removed for assessment and not return to play the same day. It also encourages the use of video review and structured sideline checks to help identify head injuries.

"FIFA may have a protocol, but that doesn't mean the application of the protocol is at the same level from every team," Twellman added.

Football's governing body did not immediately respond to a request for comment on its concussion protocols.

DIFFERENT LEVELS OF MEDICAL INFRASTRUCTURE

Twellman has pointed to what he sees at club level: players from different countries often arrive in the MLS with vastly different understanding of brain injuries.

"Sometimes they don't even know what a concussion looks like or how it should be treated until they see and discuss it,' he said.