Summit tackles growing risks faced by athletes globally

Matthew Graham, Head of UNI World Players stated: “We’re excited to bring together leaders from player organizations worldwide in an unprecedented global effort to enhance athlete wellbeing. Occupational safety and health is a fundamental human right, and this summit provides an invaluable opportunity to share expertise and guidance on applying international standards to safeguard athletes across sport.”

Bostjan Nachbar, ELPA Managing Director added: “Excessive competition schedules and the relentless demand for performance are pushing professional athletes to the brink of exhaustion. The overuse of their bodies both physically and mentally not only threatens their long-term health but also undermines the integrity of sport itself. It’s time to recognize that athletes’ wellbeing must be prioritized over the relentless pursuit of profit and spectacle. The summit in Mataró will address the topics that will contribute to the much-needed change in the world of sports.”

The summit's framework focuses on three areas:

1. Spotting hazards: Discussions will highlight issues related to heavy workloads with attention to gender-specific challenges. Groundbreaking research tailored for female athletes will be featured.

2. Addressing risks: The application of international occupational health standards in sports will be explored along with tools for tracking and mitigating risks.

3. Making changes: Best practices like negotiated rest periods and mental health support systems will be shared alongside success stories.

Female athletes' safety takes precedence as the summit addresses inequities due to underinvestment in resources. Strategies supporting comprehensive protection measures for women in sports will be shared.

With over 85,000 players represented globally by World Players Association affiliates across 100 countries aim for this summit as a pivotal moment ensuring player wellbeing becomes central in decision-making throughout all sporting levels.