FAI allays health fears over 3G pitches

The FAI have defended the safety of artificial pitches after concerns were raised in England that a young goalkeeper’s Hodgkin’s lymphoma might be linked to contact with the rubber pellets used in 3G surfaces.

“We have looked at this issue previously, and Fifa and our consultants Lavosport and Sportslabs have outlined to us that the use of crumb rubber on pitches is not a health risk,” the FAI said yesterday.

“There is a large body of reports that contradict the claims that artificial turf or crumb rubber is a risk to health. We will continue to be guided by Fifa and the appropriate health agencies.”