Professor Peter Fricker, Chief Sports Medicine Advisor to the President of Aspire Zone Foundation, Doha flew out specifically to Dubai for the seminars organised by the Australian Trade Commission for Australia Unlimited UAE 2013. He spoke to ta’ameen Qatar to share his opinion on the link between Sports and Insurance.
Professor Peter Fricker, Chief Sports Medicine Advisor to the President of Aspire Zone Foundation, Doha
Please share your thoughts on the importance of the FIFA World Cup 2022 for the development of the medical sector in the State of Qatar.
As an observer, I can see a lot of good work being done by Aspetar Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Hospital, through its National Sports Medicine Program and its ‘Football Excellence’ program, to enhance the skills of the medical service providers to our footballers in Qatar. I have no doubt that the World Cup will see many of these clinicians working to support the services to be provided to the international footballers in 2022.
What according to you are the areas that need to be emphasised on or looked at while staging the event from a risk management perspective?
In a generic sense, player safety and the safety of referees, spectators and support staff (including volunteers) is paramount. Heat and humidity are of course front line considerations, together with appropriate access to fluids, food, safe, comfortable transport and accommodation. Beyond these, are the issues of maintaining a doping free competition, a high standard of refereeing and great customer service for spectators.
Do you think the FIFA World Cup 2022 would open doors to greater awareness towards health insurance and athlete insurance?
I would like to think each and every match, training session and competition promotes better approaches to the care of players and officials – including the provision for access to first class healthcare.
Qatar is heavily promoting sports activities by declaring National Sports Day on the 12th of February. Do you think that the nationals of Qatar are interested in maintaining a regular fitness regime?
I have been impressed at the take up of physical activity and sport by Qataris (as well as resident expats) in recent times. I believe the foundation of the National Sports Day was an inspired initiative and will serve the country well. I am optimistic that this direction will continue and will produce benefits in the long term.
What are the common types of sports related injuries that occur at such mega events?
Fortunately injuries are infrequent, but the usual complaints are around muscle soreness, minor strains and sprains and tiredness from enthusiastic participation.
The Emir of Qatar puts a lot of stress on the importance of sports and its significance in the lives of individuals and communities. Do you think Qatar is increasingly trying to promote itself as one of the sports capitals of the World after London, NY and Rio de Janeiro?
There is no doubt that Qatar is becoming a recognised centre for world-class events. There are many sports capitals around the world now given the legacy of Olympic games and World Cups around the globe. I think NY may have been overtaken already by cities across Asia, Australia and Europe.
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