ABOUT CP FOOTBALL

CP football is a seven-a-side adaptation of football designed for athletes with neurological impairments, including cerebral palsy, traumatic brain injury, or stroke. It is played on a smaller pitch with no offside rule, and each match consists of two 30-minute halves.

The game is fast-paced, highly tactical, and demands a combination of technical skill, spatial awareness, and teamwork.

Players are classified into three categories based on their level of impairment: FT1 for athletes with the most significant activity limitations, FT2 for those with moderate impairment, and FT3 for those with minimal impairment. To ensure fair play, each team must always have at least one FT1 player on the field and may have no more than one FT3 player at a time.

Matches are officiated under a modified version of the International Football Association Board Laws of the Game, with rules adapted for inclusivity and safety. Headers are permitted, and throw-ins may be executed with one or two hands depending on the player’s ability.

CP football emphasises skilful dribbling, short passing, and positional discipline. It is both physically and mentally demanding, with tactical formations often adapted to meet the unique needs of each team.

CP FOOTBALL HISTORY

CP football made its international debut at the 1982 World Games for the Disabled and was added to the Paralympic programme at the Stoke Mandeville and New York 1984 Paralympic Games. It remained part of the Paralympic Games programme until the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games.

Since then, the sport has continued to grow globally, with the International Federation of CP Football (IFCPF) hosting world championships, regional championships, and youth development programmes. Major competitions include the IFCPF World Cup and Continental Championships for Europe, the Americas, Asia-Oceania, and Africa. In 2017, CP football became a recognised Para sport.

The most recent IFCPF World Cup was held in Salou, Spain (2022), featuring over 15 national teams. CP football is now played in over 60 countries and has a vibrant grassroots and elite community.

While currently outside the Paralympic Games programme, CP football is actively developing pathways for athletes of all ages and skill levels, with the goal of increasing global participation and visibility.

Did you know ?

Belgium was the first Paralympic champion of CP Football, played at the Stoke Mandeville & New York 1984 Paralympic Games winning 1-0 against Ireland in the finals.