At AFC headquarters in Kuala Lumpur, medical coordinators worked through simulated match-day emergencies over four days. More than 50 specialists from AFC member associations attended the 2026 course, according to Al Wahda News, which reported its conclusion on 14 October 2026.
The curriculum covered emergency planning and cardiac incidents. It also addressed concussion. Participants practiced CPR and the use of automated external defibrillators, with simulated medical scenarios forming part of the training.
Emergency response and match-day preparation
Sessions on the first two days focused on urgent cases and injuries. Cardiac emergencies and concussion were among the scenarios. Participants examined how to prepare and carry out emergency plans before and during matches, with particular attention to sudden cardiac arrest.
Practical exercises covered basic life support, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Participants also trained with automated external defibrillators.
The UAE delegation comprised Dr Mustafa Al Sayed Al Hashimi, chair of the Sports Medicine Committee, and committee member Dr Ahmed Ibrahim Ali. The association said the course aimed to strengthen medical staff capabilities and raise standards for player health and safety.
Anti-doping rules and procedures
Anti-doping took centre stage on the third day. Dr Carlos Lopez, FIFA's anti-doping director, presented on anticipated changes to the World Anti-Doping Code and international anti-doping regulations for 2027. He also discussed the responsibilities of doping control officers and related procedures.
Participants reviewed MODOC and the athlete biological passport. They then worked through group exercises and simulated medical scenarios, including discussions of non-compliance cases and procedures for handling analytical results.
UAE federations have also pursued participation initiatives beyond football. One example is a school and community chess effort, the chess development partnership involving the UAE Chess Federation and Palms Sports.
The four-day programme closed with an interactive session where participants shared the experience and knowledge they had gained.
