New science aims to make footballs safer to head

A Loughborough University study led by 25-year-old Dr Ieuan Phillips tested 20 footballs by firing them at a dummy head to measure energy transfer. Results show modern balls transfer similar or greater energy than old leather balls in both wet and dry conditions, with energy differences driven by construction. The study aims to inform the design of a safer ball to protect players from brain injury and neurodegenerative disease.