In a move that could significantly increase cardiac arrest survival rates, the American Heart Association (AHA) is partnering with FIFA to bring Hands-Only CPR training to Fan Festivals in four U.S. host cities during the upcoming soccer championship. The initiative, part of the AHA's Nation of Lifesavers movement, aims to empower more people to respond in cardiac emergencies, where immediate CPR can double or triple survival chances.
Starting June 10 through July 19, the AHA's mobile CPR unit will be stationed at FIFA Fan Festivals in Atlanta, Dallas, and Philadelphia, as well as at the New York New Jersey Fan Zone in the Bronx and the Central Park Mini Pitch. These events are expected to draw thousands of international visitors, providing a unique platform to teach life-saving skills. The collaboration with FIFA Medical underscores the importance of health legacy initiatives tied to major sporting events.
“By offering Hands-Only CPR instruction at FIFA Fan Festivals, thousands of people can join the Nation of Lifesavers and help more communities feel prepared to take action when every second counts,” said Nancy Brown, CEO of the American Heart Association. “More than half of people who experience cardiac arrest outside a hospital don’t receive CPR before emergency responders arrive. That’s why we are committed to ensuring more people are trained, confident, and ready to act as a lifesaver in a cardiac emergency.”
Hands-Only CPR is a simple technique that involves calling 911 and pushing hard and fast in the center of the chest. It is effective for teens and adults in the first few minutes of an emergency and can be learned quickly. The AHA is the worldwide leader in resuscitation science and publishes the official scientific guidelines for CPR.
This marks the AHA's first appearance at a FIFA event and its 10th at a major national sporting event, following previous training at Super Bowls, NFL Drafts, and the NBA All-Star Game. The initiative supports the AHA's goal to double cardiac arrest survival rates by 2030. According to a recent study by the Annenberg Public Policy Center, the AHA is the most trusted public health information source after an individual's personal healthcare provider, with 82% of U.S. adults expressing confidence in the organization.
Fans visiting the mobile unit can practice Hands-Only CPR, learn to recognize cardiac arrest, and build confidence to act. Volunteer opportunities are available for those 18 and older, with no medical experience required. More information is available at heart.org/FIFAFanFestival.
“Soccer has a unique ability to unite communities across cultures and generations,” said Andrew Massey, FIFA Medical Director. “By incorporating Hands-Only CPR training into the FIFA Fan Festival experience, fans can leave with more than memories from the tournament - they can leave with the confidence to help save a life during a cardiac emergency.”
With nearly 3 out of 4 cardiac arrests outside the hospital occurring at home, learning CPR can help save the life of a loved one. The AHA encourages everyone to learn Hands-Only CPR and join the Nation of Lifesavers at heart.org/nation. This initiative has the potential to create a lasting public health impact, leaving communities better prepared to respond to cardiac emergencies long after the tournament ends.
