FFK takes important steps for safety in football, distributes modern defibrillators to clubs

The Football Federation of Kosovo, as part of a project supported by the UEFA HatTrick programme, has launched an important initiative aimed at improving safety on football pitches. Through this project, all clubs in the Super League, First League and Second League, as well as women’s clubs, have been equipped with state-of-the-art defibrillators, which can make the difference between life and death in medical emergencies.

Over the past decade, serious medical incidents on the pitch have highlighted the importance of medical equipment such as defibrillators, which can save lives in the event of cardiac arrest.

In addition to distributing the equipment, the project has also included training sessions and awareness campaigns on the correct and swift use of defibrillators. The sessions were led by the medical staff of Kosovo’s senior national team, who shared experience gained from UEFA training courses.

Football health training will continue, and the FFK will work closely with clubs to ensure that every team has trained personnel who know how to respond immediately in emergencies.

This project is a significant step not only for safety, but also for the further professionalisation of Kosovan football, following European standards for healthcare in sport. UEFA’s support through the HatTrick programme further confirms the trust and commitment this institution has shown towards the development of football in Kosovo.

FFK President Agim Ademi described the project as an investment not only in equipment, but also in life, safety and the future of Kosovan football, given that our football has suffered fatalities on the pitch.

“At a time when sport is increasingly regarded not only as entertainment, but also as an activity that requires great care for athletes’ physical and psychological well-being, this project clearly shows that the safety and health of players are an absolute priority for the Football Federation of Kosovo,” he said.

Kosovo’s senior national team doctor, Amir Vejseli, stressed that a defibrillator is a vital and urgent necessity that should be present at every football match.

“Defibrillators are an urgent requirement, since this equipment can be vital in cases of cardiac arrest that may occur during matches and training sessions. The medical organisation of a football match is just as important as its sporting organisation,” he said.

The FFK remains committed to ensuring a safer environment for everyone involved in football, from young players to professionals, including coaches, technical staff and match officials.