Scientists at Loughborough University say footballs could be redesigned to reduce the impact of heading after discovering a new pressure wave energy transfer to the brain.
The FA-backed study found some balls produced up to 55 times more energy transfer than others, regardless of era or material. Researchers used a surrogate head model to measure the effect, noting that both leather and modern balls can generate high-energy pulses.
The findings come amid growing concern over links between heading and neurodegenerative disease, highlighted by the deaths of Gordon McQueen and Jeff Astle. Lead researcher Dr Ieuan Phillips said the breakthrough offers a chance to design safer balls.
The FA has already banned heading in under-11s and limited high-force headers in training, while Scotland has introduced stricter rules. FA Chief Medical Officer Charlotte Cowie called the study “innovative insight” and urged a global approach.
