Modern football is a high-intensity sport played year-round, with busy schedules and limited recovery time. The main challenge is no longer a lack of knowledge but the ability to apply it effectively under pressure. This issue, focused on Sports Medicine in Football for the FIFA World Cup 2026, offers a targeted overview of the preparations needed for one of football’s most demanding global events. Sports medicine teams must adapt evidence-based practices to short preparation periods, tactical demands, and different coaching styles.

The upcoming World Cup, hosted across multiple countries, will bring additional difficulties, including travel, time zone changes, and diverse climates, factors that place significant physiological stress on players. These realities highlight the importance of proactive preparation. In this context, the journal features a collection of excellent papers reflecting current knowledge and new insights, with valuable contributions from Dr. Andrew Massey, President of the FIFA Medical Commission, and his colleagues. This edition is guest edited by Professor Cristiano Eirale, Chief of Sports Medicine, and Dr. Celeste Geertsema, Sports Medicine Physician in Aspetar.