They warn about the incidence of boots on ACL injuries

The plague of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) ruptures, common among players, is one of the recurring themes in the women’s soccer sector. So how much can that be? British Parliament to ensure that the high rate of football players suffering these injuries has been “stupid and slow,” said the Women and Equalities Committee of the British Parliament in a report published this Tuesday.

The English duo formed by Beth Mead and Leah Williamsonthe dutch Vivianne Miedema and the Canadian Janine Beckie These are some examples of top players who missed the World Cup due to anterior cruciate ligament injuries.

In its report, titled “Health barriers for girls and women in sport”, the committee highlighted the lack of football boots specifically designed for women. “In addition to the possible link to anterior cruciate ligament injuries, there is evidence that football boots cause more extensive problems for many female players,” he said.

The sector should make more efforts to increase the availability of women-specific equipment and kits, he added. “The sports science sector’s response to the ACL problem has been slow and ineffective,” the report said.

“We have no doubt that a health issue of similar magnitude affecting elite football players would receive a faster, more thorough and better coordinated response.”

The committee also called on the Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) Committee to establish a working group to develop a long-term strategy to address the issue.

A report published by the European Football Club Association in 2023 found that up to 82% of female players in Europe experienced discomfort when wearing boots. Sportswear brands say they are investing in women’s styles, but say retailers may be reluctant to carry them because of a lack of awareness about the growing business opportunity.