FA Bans U11 Players from Heading Balls for Health Reasons

The Football Association (FA) has implemented a ban on players aged 11 and under from heading the ball, responding to increasing concerns regarding the long-term effects on brain health. This decision is informed by research suggesting that heading the ball can send small pulses of energy to the brain at the point of impact.

Although the immediate impact of heading is minor, experts warn that repeated exposure over time may elevate the risk of neurological damage. Major studies in the field have indicated that former professional footballers are 3 to 5 times more likely to suffer from neurodegenerative diseases compared to the general population.

In light of these findings, the FA has issued guidance to limit high-force headers during training, particularly in situations such as corner kicks and free kicks.